Acupuncture is a complete medical modality that is over 4000 years old. It is based on the understanding that there is a vital life force, or Ki, that flows through the body in specific pathways called meridians. These pathways regulate specific organs and functions of the body. The pathways can become deficient of energy and not work well or excessive and cause pain and blockage. The body becomes dysfunctional and illness is the result.
Acupuncture treatments are based on pulse diagnosis of the dysfunctionality of these pathways. The pulses direct the practitioner where to exactly place the very fine surgical steel needles. The combination of points is vital to the correct treatment. When the needles are in the pathway or meridian, they re-direct the energy to a harmonious balance so that the body can function appropriately.
Dr. Duckworth uses pulse diagnosis as the cornerstone to assessment the patient’s medical condition. It is through pulse diagnosis that an integrative approach is developed using other medical modalities and treatments.
JAPANESE ACUPUNCTURE KOTOTAMA TRADITION
The pulse diagnosis and treatments that are used at the Wellness Center come from the Kototama Tradition taught by Sensei Nakazono at the Kototama Institute in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Dr. Duckworth studied with Sensei Nakazono for ten years and applies the Kototama Principle to all assessments of the patient’s health and subsequent treatment. The assessment of the patient looks at the balance of the 5 elements: wood, fire, wind, water, and earth as well as the balance of yin and yang.
MODERN RESEARCH
Recently modern science has begun to research why acupuncture works. MRI and blood analysis research has verified that acupuncture:
- Releases endorphins and polypeptides at the site of the needle insertion.
- Stimulates areas of the brain that correspond to the treated body part.
- Increases the blood flow to specific areas of the body bringing the appropriate blood chemistry, which promotes healing.
- Reduces swelling and edema in the affected area.
- Affects nerve impulses and blocks nerve impulses that cause pain.
WHAT CAN ACUPUNCTURE TREAT
Because acupuncture treats the energy of the body, it treats a vast number of medical conditions. Energy always precedes matter. Everything including an atom has an energy pattern. If you can re-establish the energy pattern and normal function you can resolve many medical problems.