About Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

In recent years, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine has gained attention as a “new alternative” medicine. The reality is that Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is actually the oldest medical system practiced in the world.

Very basically, acupuncture is the use of fine, hair-thin acupuncture filaments on the body’s surface to influence physiological function. Other non-invasive treatment methods such as Acupressure, Cupping, Gua Sha, Moxabustion and Oriental massage techniques of Tui Na may also be used when appropriate. Acupuncturists who are also Nationally Certified in Chinese Herbology, may also prescribe natural herbal formulas when appropriate.

The earliest record of acupuncture is found in the 4,700 year old Huang Di Nei Jing (The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine). It is said to be the oldest medical textbook in the world. Contained in it are documented theories of Shen Nung, the father of Chinese medicine, concerning the heart, blood circulation and the pulse. These detailed teachings were recorded long before western medicine existed or explored any of these things.

Acupuncture is based on Shen Nung’s theory that the body has an energy force running through it. This energy life force is known as Qi (pronounced “chee”) and is responsible for all the physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual functions of your body and mind. Therefore, your health is a function of your Qi. When there is an imbalance, blockage or interruption of the flow of Qi, illness may occur.

Qi travels throughout your body by way of the “meridians”, which are energy pathways. Specific acupuncture points along these meridians are used to rebalance and unblock your Qi so that health can be maintained and restored. Modern research has confirmed the actions and connections of many of the acupuncture points and their effects in areas of the brain. The circulatory, digestive, neuromuscular and endocrine systems, among others, are regulated by acupuncture. Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, your body’s natural feel-good chemicals, which help relieve stress and pain. Levels of neurotransmitters such as noradrenaline and serotonin are regulated. Acupuncture can also regulate dilation and constriction of blood vessels.

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is an effective, safe and valid form of treatment alongside mainstream medicine and other alternative therapies. Visit additional pages to find out more about specific problems treated, and the page “Other Healing Applications of Acupuncture” on this site to see a list of specific illnesses that can be treated with acupuncture, as recognized by the World Health Organization.

Cindy E. Levitz, L.Ac., Dipl. OM   212-924-8034
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