Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat a variety of
medical conditions. It is a practice based in traditional Chinese
medicine (TCM), designed to regulate the flow of energy throughout
the body. Acupuncture can help prevent illness, treat health
problems, and promote overall balance and well-being.
TCM is a system of healing that is based on the belief that a
type of life force or energy known as chi (pronounced "chee") flows
through channels in the body called meridians. Each meridian
connects to an organ or group of organs that governs particular
bodily functions. The chi depends on a balance of the two opposing
energies of yin (negative) and yang (positive). Illness results
when too little or too much chi exists in a meridian, or when the
chi stagnates or is blocked. Stimulating certain points with fine
needles can balance and restore the flow of chi.
Western researchers have found that acupuncture points
correspond to points on the skin that have less electrical
resistance than other skin areas. There is some evidence that
stimulation of the skin can affect internal organs by means of
nerve reflex pathways. One theory is that acupuncture stimulates
the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals called endorphins.
Another theory is that it stimulates the pituitary gland, which in
turns stimulates the adrenal gland to release anti-inflammatory
chemicals.
What to expect at your acupuncture
session
At your first session, your acupuncture provider will spend time
discussing your medical history, nutritional habits, lifestyle, and
other environmental factors. Your initial visit will last
approximately one hour. Most follow-up visits last about 30
minutes.
During your session, you will lie on a padded table. Your
practitioner will insert very thin needles into specific points on
your body. All acupuncture needles are sterile. The needles may
cause pressure or a mild tingling sensation, but they usually don't
hurt. Sometimes you won't feel them at all.
Most acupuncture sessions will last for half an hour, but your
first session will be an hour long so you can talk to your
acupuncture provider about your health history and lifestyle. Your
acupuncture practitioner will design a treatment plan for you.
How to schedule an appointment
To make an appointment, please call the Kaiser Permanente Center
for Complementary Medicine nearest you. The Kaiser Permanente
Center for Complementary Medicine is open to everyone. You do not
have to be a Kaiser Permanente member to come to our facilities and
receive chiropractic, acupuncture, or massage treatment. Whether
you are a member or nonmember, you will receive the same
high-quality care.
Lakewood 303-239-7224
Midtown 303-764-8500
Smoky Hill 303-699-3670
Westminster 303-457-6260
Our hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. through 5:30 p.m.
Our Lakewood, Midtown, and Westminster Medical Offices are also
open Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
