The Epitome of Acupuncture
July 12, 2011
Last week, a patient I hadn’t seen in five months, came in with a frontal headache/migraine that had been going on for two weeks. He had been to his doctor, who sent him to the cardiologist. Since he has a history of heart disease, it’s a valid concern. Nothing was found, but he got a prescription for the headache and was referred to his neurologist. The medication didn’t help and the neurologist couldn’t find any reason for the problem either, but also prescribed something which also hadn’t worked to alleviate the headache.
Finally he came to me. I asked where he felt the pain, and immediately had my understanding of the problem and put a few corresponding needles in. After about 5 needles I asked him how much relief he was experiencing. He responded with an almost reluctant or dismayed, “It’s better.”
I had to ask again,because I the inflection of his response and the words he spoke didn’t mix. ” How close to 100% relief are we?’
Again, still dismayed and seeming bewildered, “It’s gone.”
I put a few more needles in to support the relief and let him rest for the customary 30 to 40 minutes. When I came back, I asked how the headache was doing.
This time he responded with a more certain, “It feels good. It’s all gone. That’s amazing.”
When he left, he said he’d call me if the headache returns. I haven’t heard from him yet.
I wanted to reiterate this story to highlight the epitome of acupuncture. We get to the point! Pun intended. We hone in on where the specific problem is by understanding what channel-systems are involved, and can instantly recognize both where the problem is, and a treatment plan. During the treatment phase, we aim to relieve the pain or problem 50% to 100% – before we even walk out of the room. After that, you rest and continue to reap the benefits and influence of the treatment.
Every individual responds differently and the case above is a best-case-scenario. The typical realm of improvement is 50 to 100% relief per treatment. Continued treatments for people who get less than complete relief has a momentum that continually and gradually builds until complete relief occurs.
If your tired of the run around and want a more instant experience, seek out acupuncture in your area. If your local to us ( Surprise, Arizona) give us a call: 623-584-6200.
I look forward to helping you.
Steven Schermerhorn, L.Ac.
