Acupuncture

SF Bay Area Musicians' Acupuncture Project

Acupuncture

The "High Frequency" Community Acupuncture Model
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Conditions Treated
Do I Have to Be Sick to Benefit From Acupuncture?
What Will My Treatment Feel Like?
Is Acupuncture Safe?

The "High Frequency"
Community Acupuncture Model
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One of the oldest and most commonly used healing systems in the world, acupuncture originated in China approximately 2,000 years ago. It involves the placement of very fine, flexible needles at specific points along energetic pathways on the body. Practiced throughout East Asia for nearly 1,500 years acupuncture has spread worldwide, and is at the forefront of complementary medical care in the U.S.

In modern China acupuncture treatment usually occurs daily or every other day, for short courses of treatment. This "high frequency" treatment model is beginning to take root in the U.S., with the aim of replicating the excellent therapeutic results achieved in China.

The Musicians' Acupuncture Project (MAP) clinic model of "high frequency" in a community setting enables us to provide high quality, frequent treatment at affordable rates.

During your initial appointment your MAP acupuncturist will recommend the frequency and course of treatment appropriate for your condition.

How Does Acupuncture Work
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The Chinese View

The ancient Chinese discovered that energy flows from the organs to the rest of the body along regular pathways. They called this energy qi -- or vital force -- and observed that when qi flows freely there is health and vitality, and when qi stagnates there is pain and disease.

Acupuncture points are specific areas on these pathways where the energy flow is most accessible. Stimulation of acupuncture points influences the flow of qi, relieving pain and restoring physiological balance.

The Western View

Scientific research has shown that acupuncture improves immune function and stimulates the nervous system. This prompts the release of chemicals and hormones that enhance the body's natural regulating and pain-control systems, thus promoting physical and emotional well-being.

For scientific explanations of acupuncture and PubMed acupuncture research abstracts please see our Resources page.

Conditions Treated
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Designed as a medical system for healing the whole person, acupuncture treats a wide range of physical, mental and emotional conditions.

Pain
Respiratory
Eye, Ear & Throat
Emotions
Digestive
Womens' Health
Reproductive & Genitourinary
Skin
Miscellaneous

Pain

Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome
Athletic injuries
Back pain
Neck pain
Tendinitis
Sciatica
Arthritis
Migraine
Headache
Ankle sprain
Focal dystonia
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Muscle pain, sprains & weakness
Snapping hip syndrome (tight iliotibial band)
Temperomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)
Facial paralysis (Bell's Palsy) & trigeminal neuralgia

Respiratory

Asthma
Allergies
Sinusitis
Bronchitis
Colds, flu & cough

Eye, Ear & Throat

Laryngitits
Sore throat
Hoarseness
Vision problems
Tinnitus

Emotions

Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Insomnia

Digestive

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Nausea, indigestion, bloating & ulcers
Liver & gallbladder disorders
Constipation & hemorrhoids
Diarrhea & colitis

Womens' Health

Amenorrhea
Menopausal discomfort
Menstrual pain & irregularity
Premenstrual syndrome

Reproductive & Genitourinary

Urinary tract & bladder infections
Infertility & impotence

Skin

Eczema, hives, rashes & acne
Herpes & shingles

Miscellaneous

Blood pressure regulation
Immune enhancement
Hormonal disorders
Addiction control
Chronic fatigue
Weight loss

Do I Have to Be Sick to Benefit From
Acupuncture Treatment?
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Acupuncture can be used for prevention as well as treatment. You do not have to feel sick to benefit from treatment.

Our in-depth initial health history often reveals the presence of subtle physiological imbalances. Addressing these imbalances with acupuncture normalizes the flow of qi (energy) through the body, promoting health and vitality. Left untreated imbalances have the potential to progress to illness or disease.

What Will My Treatment Feel Like?
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Acupuncture is generally painless, as the needles are very fine and flexible. Treatments last 20 to 45 minutes during which time the client relaxes in a comfortable position. Most clients experience a deep state of relaxation and enhanced sense of well-being.

Is Acupuncture Safe?
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Acupuncture is a very safe form of treatment when practiced by a licensed professional. Only sterile, disposable, single-use needles are used in our clinic.