Veth Javier, L.Ac.

The Chinese practice of acupuncture, which goes back over three thousand years, involves inserting hair-thin, surgical steel needles into selected acupuncture points in the body. According to that ancient tradition, health is achieved through the harmonious balance between the opposing forces of yin (spirit) and yang (blood). The attraction between them creates an energy known as Qi. This energy flows to all parts of the body through channels called meridians, pathways that run along the surface of the body and branch into the body's interior. Any imbalance in those forces is believed to cause illness. So, when needles are placed at prescribed spots, called acupoints, along the meridians, balance and health are restored.

There is very little difference how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western Medicine view the human body. The main difference is the focus of the medicine because of the need at the time in which the two types of medicine arose.

TCM focuses on strength, vitality, fertility and virility. Everything the body needs to grow and repair itself is in the blood. It is believed that if there is a blood flow problem, an involved organ starts to deteriorate/malfunction and the disease process starts. TCM does not treat symptoms. The focus is to push Qi and blood into the area where there are problems and to treat the function of the body.

What to expect during an acupuncture session: During a treatment, very thin, solid, hairlike needles are inserted at specific points on the body. The stimulation of these acupuncture points affects both the central and peripheral nervous systems. It triggers the release of the body's internal chemicals such as endorphins and enkephalins, which have pain-relieving properties.

Many acupuncturists use a method where needles are inserted directly into the area of pain. The problem with this approach is that one always runs the risk of aggravating the pain and the results are not consistent or reliable. I practice a different style of acupuncture. This method is over 3,000 years old and is derived from the I-Ching, one of the oldest books in the world. This method has several names such as: "I-Ching Acupuncture," "Balance Method," “Distal Point Acupuncture."

The acupuncture points used are from the elbows to the fingers, and from the knees to the toes, occasionally, on the abdomen, scalp and ears. Consequently, the patient rarely has to take off their clothes and the treatments are efficient, comfortable and effective. Pain relief usually occurs in seconds and long lasting relief over a series of treatments is at least 80%.

OTHER MODALITIES:

Cupping: Stagnation in the body is removed by bringing toxins to the surface to be released through the open pores. The increased blood flow into the area of cupping also allows the area to heal more quickly. Cupping has been found to affect the body up to four inches into the tissues, causing these tissues to release toxins, activate the lymphatic system, clear colon blockages, and help activate and clear the veins, arteries and capillaries.

Moxibustion: Moxibustion is used to strengthen the blood, stimulate the flow of Qi, and maintain general health. The sensation that moxa produces is a pleasant heat that penetrates deep into the skin. In traditional Chinese medicine, moxibustion is used on people who have a cold or stagnant condition. The burning of moxa expels cold and warms the meridians, which leads to smoother flow of blood and Qi.

For more information, please go to "Acupuncture Links" on the right tab.

Moxibustion with artemesia herb

Cupping

Veth Javier, L.Ac.

Acupuncture in Burbank

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Olive Springs Wellness Center Burbank, CA

Fitness Competetions...way back when...