Medical Acupuncture is practiced by D.O.'s and M.D.'s who combine western and eastern techniques and philosophy to solve their patients medical and pain related concerns. Intensive training and continued education is conducted by the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture. Dr. Wolf has been practicing medical acupuncture since 1989.

WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?

Acupuncture is a method of influencing the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning by inserting needles and sometimes applying electrical stimulation or heat (moxibustion) at very precise points on the body.

WHAT IS CHINESE MEDICINE?

Chinese medicine is the classical medical tradition that originally evolved in China over 2000 years ago. It includes several modalities of therapy: acupuncture, herbal pharmacy, diet therapy, massage and Qi Gong (exercises to promote physiological balance in the body and mind).

WHAT IS MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE?

Medical acupuncture integrates classical Chinese medicine into a Western scientific framework. It gives full dignity to both the medical tradition found in the Chinese texts and to contemporary Western medicine, offering modern interpretations and parallels wherever possible. Thus, it is taught to and practiced only by physicians trained and licence in Western medicine. Such a doctor can use one or the other approach, or a combination of both as the need arises, to treat an illness or an injury. The primary tools for the medical acupuncturist are acupuncture, Chinese herbal formulas, diet and lifestyle counselling. Western pharmaceuticals are also used when appropriate.

WHAT IS THE SCOPE OF MEDICAL ACUPUNCTURE?

Medical acupuncture addresses the same problems as Western medicine, but disorders are seen from an energetic model as well as from the molecular model familiar to all physicians.

Medical acupuncture influences the human organism in the following areas:

• prevention of illness by identifying each patient's biopsychotype, one's unique predisposition to emotional and physical problems
  
• treatment of emotional and physical ailments which are already present

While acupuncture is popularly associated with pain control, in the hands of a well-trained practitioner it has much broader applications. Acupuncture can be effective as the only treatment used, or as adjunctive therapy to many forms of medical and surgical disorders.

The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of medical problems, including:

Trauma such as in sports injuries, sprains, contusions, lacerations, fractures, and burns along with appropriate medical, orthopedic or surgical intervention


Neurological and muscular disorders such as migraines and other headaches, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, Bell's palsy, neuralgias, muscle spasm, tendonitis, sciatica, frozen shoulder, osteoarthritis, facial tics, TMJ pain, dizziness, ringing in the ears


Invasive and respiratory illnesses such as colds, sore throats, chronic fatigue syndrome, hepatitis, asthma, acute and chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, seasonal allergies


Digestive disorders such as hyperacidity, nausea, Crohn's disease, spasticolon, diarrhea, constipation


Gynecologic problems such as PMS, herpes, irregular, heavy, frequent or absent menses, non-structural infertility, sexual dysfunction, morning sickness


Urinary tract problems such as recurrent urine infections and benign prostatic problems.


Dermatological conditions such as poison ivy and oak, shingles, eczema, acne


Emotional Disorders such as anxiety and stress, depression and grief, insomnia


Substance abuse such as alcohol, tobacco, tranquilizers, stimulants, narcotics - but only in the context of a thorough evaluation and outside support

HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?

The number of treatments depends on many factors and is entirely individualized. Complex or long-standing conditions may require weekly treatments for several months. For acute problems, fewer visits are required.

ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS?

As the body responds to treatment there can be an increase in symptoms for a few days, or a discomfort may "move" to another location. There are sometimes temporary changes in emotions, sleep, appetite, bowels or urination. Often after the first one or two treatments one may feel a little disoriented for a short time.

DO THE NEEDLES HURT?

People experience acupuncture needling differently. One often experiences a fleeting deep ache with body needles. Hand needles only penetrate 2 mm and feel like a tiny pin stick.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Avoid alcohol, sexual activity, vigorous exercise and large meals within 6 hours of treatment. Substance abuse can seriously interfere with treatment. Continue to take all prescription drugs. Keep good mental or written notes of your response to treatment.

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Some insurance companies currently cover acupuncture costs, others (including Medicare) do not yet recognize the value of acupuncture. Contact your insurance company to see if you are covered. Talk with your employer to negotiate coverage for acupuncture with your insurer.