ACUPUNCTURE: WHAT IS IT? Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient medical system used by the Chinese for over 5000 years. Although it may be ancient, it is still used in modern China and even many parts of the world today. Its effectiveness and relevance has been documented and proven by case studies and scientific researches.

This medical system is based on the theory of bio-energy (Qi). It is believed that imbalances (excesses and deficiencies) and stagnated circulation of this energy results in diseases. Undesirable symptoms such as pain are indications of such imbalances and stagnation, which may result from stress, injuries, an unhealthy diet, genetic reason or an illness. The treatment aims to restore the balance and circulation of Qi. Since symptoms are seen as signs of a deeper problem, hence finding and treating the root is the focus.

Acupuncture is one of the many treatment modalities of TCM. A traditional acupuncturist is one who is trained in TCM, and uses its theories, diagnostic tools and treatment principles. A typical treatment session begins with the routine of health questions, an examination of the tongue and palpation of the pulse at the wrist. This routine enables the acupuncturist to assess the vitality of the patient and make a TCM diagnosis. A treatment plan will be created based on this diagnosis. Acupuncture is performed by the insertion of extremely fine sterile and disposable needles into selected points on the body to bring about healing. Depending on the treatment plan, other modalities such as Moxibustion, Electro-acupuncture, Auricular acupuncture, Tui Na, Gua Sha and/or Cupping therapy may be performed as well.

The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system.

The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.

WHAT IS THE SCOPE OF ACUPUNCTURE? Acupuncture is a system which can influence three areas of health care:

• promotion of health and well-being,
• prevention of illness, or its progression
• treatment of various medical conditions.

While acupuncture is often 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 the support or adjunct to other medical treatment forms in many medical and surgical disorders. Acupuncture is particularly useful in resolving physical problems related to tension and stress and emotional conditions.

PRACTITIONER'S PROFILE MELANIE WEE

• Bachelor of Arts (SFU)
• Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine diploma (ICTCMV)
• Registered acupuncturist (CTCMABC)
• Certification in Constitutional Facial Acupuncture Renewal™ (Mary Elizabeth Wakefield)
• Certification in Infertility Cure™ (Randine Lewis)
• Certification in Acupuncture in Pregnancy and Childbirth (Debra Betts)

Melanie has a special interest and experience in treating:

1. musculoskeletal disorders such as soft tissue injuries, arthritic conditions, low back pain, frozen shoulders, carpel tunnel syndrome, various form of tendinitis, bursitis, sciatica, knee and ankle pain
2. women's health, including menstrual disorders such as irregular periods, painful menstrual cramps, spotting between periods, PMS, extremely heavy or light periods; infertility, prenatal and postpartum care including labour preparation, menopausal discomforts including hot flushes, night sweats, headaches, facial acupuncture
3. stress related physical symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, irritability, chest pain, depression, tension headaches, muscular pain, irritable bowel, acupuncture helps release pent up emotions that often lead to physical problems

Acupuncture for labour preparation:

Acupuncture is particularly useful for helping women achieve efficient labour. The treatment prepares the pelvis and cervix for birth. Research studies have shown that women who received acupuncture treatment prior to labour and delivery reported a more positive childbirth experience. They required less medical intervention including pain medications, medical induction and caesarean section. Kubista E, Kucera H. (1974). On the use of acupuncture in the preparation for delivery, Geburtshilfe Perinatol; 178(3):224-9. Betts D Lenox S (2006) Acupuncture For Prebirth Treatment: An Observational Study of its use in Midwifery Practice. Medical Acupuncture. Vol 17 No.3.