Acupuncture

Acupuncture

Dr. Angela Lambert, Naturopathic Doctor, acupuncture

Rooted in the ancient philosophy of Daoism, Chinese medicine can be traced back over 5,000 years. Practiced in China for over 2,000 years, acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine. While originally bones were used to perform this powerful form of medicine, modern acupuncture uses disposable stainless steel needles, gently inserted at specific points, to regulate the qi (energy) of the body. A person’s qi can become imbalanced in many ways. Acupuncture is a valuable means of re-establishing that balance thereby supporting the body in functioning better. When the body functions correctly, many symptoms such as menstrual pain, insomnia, intestinal disorders, headaches, sprains and strains, or fatigue resolve. Acupuncture helps prevent disease, improve health, relax and rejuvenate.

Dr. Lambert practices several styles of acupuncture. These include Classical Five Elements acupuncture; a form of medicine that bases its treatments on restoring the regulatory movement of the Dao within each person, balances the body, mind, heart and spirit. Classical Chinese acupuncture focuses on the cause and development of illness and bases its treatments on a detailed, theoretical understanding of optimal health. Traditional Chinese medicine, TCM, bases its analysis on patterns of disharmony involving yin, yang, heat, cold, excess and deficiency. Dr. Lambert is well versed in all forms and able to choose the suitable form for patients who seek healing.

Moxibustion

Utilizing the herb mugwort, or Ai Ye in Chinese, moxibustion is a Chinese medicine technique used to warm regions and acupuncture points. With the intention of stimulating circulation through the points and inducing a smoother flow of blood and qi, scientific research has shown that mugwort acts as an emmenagogue, meaning that it stimulates blood-flow in the pelvic area and uterus. Moxibustion can warm the body against cold and dampness and can turn breech babies. Moxibustion is especially effective in the treatment of chronic problems, deficient conditions (weakness), and gerontology. Bian Que (fl. circa 500 BC), one of the most famous semi-legendary doctors of Chinese antiquity and the first specialist in moxibustion, believed the benefits of moxa were greater than those of acupuncture. He asserted that moxa could add new energy to the body and could treat both excess and deficient conditions. Practitioners may use acupuncture needles made of various materials in combination with moxa, depending on the direction of qi flow they wish to stimulate. Dr. Lambert frequently utilizes moxa in her treatments because of its positive effect on both pain relief and increasing energy. It is a significant form of treatment in 5-Elements Acupuncture.

Cupping

Ancient Traditions Natural Medicine, Portsmouth, NH cupping
Sometimes called fire cupping, this treatment modality incorporates applying acupressure by creating a vacuum next to the patient’s skin. Throughout history, this treatment has included the use of glass, plastic, and bamboo cups, placed on the skin with a vacuum. Dr. Lambert uses glass cups specifically designed to create a solid connection to the skin. This therapy is used to treat back, neck, shoulder, and other musculoskeletal pain. It is also very effective in treating lung congestion from asthma or upper respiratory infections, including the common cold, pneumonia, and bronchitis.