This is the first in a series of posts about the who, why, what, where, when and how of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

The Channels and Collaterals are the pathways in which Qi (pronounced ‘chee’) circulate. Qi could be likened to energy and in a simplified version it is; though there are many different kinds of Qi.

Our digestive system creates Food Qi out of our diet and that is the basis for all of the Qi in our bodies, with the exception of the Original Qi that we acquired from our parents. Our lungs combine the air we breathe and the aformentioned Food Qi to create Gathering Qi which regulates the Heart and Lungs and is the precursor to the Nutritive Qi. Nutritive Qi courses through all the channels, collaterals and organs, and is what we are working with when you see me for Acupuncture. There is also Qi that circulates in your skin and maintains the barrier between you and outside pathogens - Defensive Qi.

The brilliance of this system of medicine is in the simplicity of the treatment. If you can diagnose where the Qi is not moving, where it is weak or where it is moving around haphazardly and why it is doing so, you can correct it. Acupuncture needles can do that!

We also use special dietary recommendations, moxibustion, herbal formulas, cupping massage and physical activity to supplement when needed.

For example, a patient with reflux and irritability needs a redirection of rogue moving Liver Qi and strengthening of their Stomach Qi. This can stop the reflux and calm their mind.

A patient with leg edema who feels cold all of the time needs to strengthen the channel in charge of water metabolism and heat up their Kidneys. This can reduce the edema while regulating their temperature.

And finally, a person with painful periods and abdominal masses needs to strongly move blood and Qi, eliminating the stagnation causing the problem.

Acupuncture can help most almost everyone. Even in the absence of uncomfortable symptoms it can improve mood, sleep, energy and digestion.

In circumstances when there is a functional issue such as a ligament tear, acupuncture can help with the symptoms of swelling and pain, but cannot fix the tear itself. In emergency situations TCM knowledge can help to stabilize a patient until First Responders arrive after 911 has been called and any First Aid has been performed.

Most people, most of the time can greatly benefit from regular acupuncture; and it feels good too! ( We’ll address that at a later date though )