Effective Treatment for Multiple Conditions
Five Element acupuncture is a unique and powerful system of natural healing. Distinct from other forms of acupuncture, it is a comprehensive approach that treats the underlying causes of illness. Some of the reasons people seek out treatment include:
- chronic pain (arthritis, fibromyalgia, accidents and injuries, joint pain, migraine headaches)
- emotional conditions (anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ADHD)
- allergies (seasonal, environmental)
- autoimmune conditions
- respiratory conditions (asthma, bronchitis)
- skin disorders (eczema, psoriasis, acne)
- women’s health concerns (menopausal transition, PMS, infertility)
- male reproductive issues (BPS)
- chronic fatigue
- addictions (nicotine, alcohol, recreational drugs, caffeine)
- insomnia
- digestive problems (IBS, Crohn’s, GERD)
- diabetes and metabolic syndrome
- adjunctive cancer therapy
What to Expect From a Session
Each session is uniquely designed to meet your individual needs. The first session begins with a comprehensive interview and evaluation, which are used to make a diagnosis and to create a treatment plan. This evaluation is followed by the first acupuncture treatment. The initial evaluation and treatment can take up to three hours to complete, while follow-up sessions usually take about an hour.
Each session includes an acupuncture treatment, in which hair-fine, sterile needles are inserted at acupuncture points to balance the body’s energy system. Moxibustion therapy — the burning of an herb, mugwort, over the acupuncture points — is often used along with acupuncture. An herbal prescription may also be given as part of the session. Nutritional, lifestyle and exercise recommendations are provided as needed.
A Customized Approach
Because Five Element acupuncture is an in-depth and comprehensive approach to healing, the number and frequency of treatments needed for optimal results will depend on your individual needs. During the initial visit, we will create a treatment plan, which specifies the number and frequency of recommended sessions. Typically, you can expect to be treated once a week for the first five to ten weeks. As your condition improves and your energy system is brought into balance, the frequency of treatment is gradually decreased. Five Element acupuncture is preventive as well as curative, and many patients choose to integrate periodic acupuncture sessions into their personal wellness program.
A Deep and Rich History
Five Element acupuncture in the West owes its beginnings to J.R. Worsley, a British osteopathic physician. He was among the first Westerners to study traditional medicine in Asia during the mid-20th century. Through an apprenticeship with master physicians, Worsley learned the traditional system. He was dedicated to passing it on as it had been taught to him. As schools and programs of study have formed in subsequent years, apprenticeship and intense clinical study with master acupuncturists remain a cornerstone of education. All certified practitioners of Five Element acupuncture trace their lineage to J.R. Worsley’s teachings.
