Choosing Acupuncture or Chinese Herbal Therapy
Acupuncture and herbal therapy are 2 of the most important components that make up Traditional Chinese Medicine. Why would one choose one form over the other? First, it is important to understand each of their strengths.
Acupuncture is unparalleled in its treatment for chronic and acute pain. When one hears about acupuncture, it is mostly in reference to pain relief. Whether the pain originates from an old injury, chronic arthritis, or a recent accident, acupuncture can help reduce the symptoms of pain quite effectively.
Acupuncture is also useful in relieving many issues related to the sympathetic nervous system such as anxiety, insomnia, and stress. Fertility, morning sickness, and menopausal symptoms can all be helped with acupuncture by modulating the endocrine and reproductive systems. Chronic nausea, diarrhea, or constipation respond well to acupuncture.
Lets face it some people are just plain scared of needles and are not willing to try acupuncture, even though it is relatively pain-free and the needles used are very thin. Chinese herbal therapy may be the perfect alternative for the needle-phobic person. In addition, Chinese herbal therapy visits are shorter and less frequent than acupuncture treatments and therefore may be better suited for someone who has a time-sensitive schedule.
Chinese herbal therapy is exceptionally effective for internal conditions that do not to respond to other forms of treatments. Good examples are digestive problems of all kinds, general malaise, pain and swelling of joints, and unexplained rashes. Chinese herbal therapy is helpful in many gynecological issues and very useful in the treatment of infertility. Acute infections such as sinus infections, urinary tract infections, and diverticulitis respond well to herbal therapy, especially where antibiotics have failed or when their repeated use is a concern. This is just a small sampling of conditions that may benefit from Chinese herbal therapy or acupuncture.
If your condition is pain related then acupuncture is the preferred course of treatment. If you are afraid of needles or have a very hectic time sensitive life schedule then Chinese herbal therapy may be a good choice for you. If you suffer from a complicated issue then acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal therapy is probably the most appropriate choice. The best options for your particular condition will be discussed with you during the thorough initial consult phase on your first visit.
