Path to Wellness Treatments & Treatable Conditions using Acupuncture

Treatments Available at Path To Wellness
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat many different conditions. It involves the insertion of very fine, stainless steel needles into specific points on the body. The strategic placement of these tiny needles stimulates key energy points that regulate physical, mental and emotional balance. Patients often do not even feel the insertion, or they may feel a slight pinch. Some patients report feeling an energetic sensation flow briefly through the meridian as a blockage is relieved. The needles are retained anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes. During this time, patients usually either fall asleep or become deeply relaxed. Traditionally, acupuncture has been seen as helping properly recirculate energy (or "Qi," pronounced "chi") along pathways in the body called meridians. The modern scientific explanation for acupuncture's effectiveness is that it stimulates the body's nervous, circulatory and immune systems. This prompts the release of naturally-occurring chemicals in the body that promote healing, as well as such neurotransmitters as endorphins and serotonin, which naturally reduce pain and positively affect one's mood. Acupuncture is not a panacea but is very successful at treating a variety of conditions. Path To Wellness only uses sterilized, individually-packaged, disposable needles.	Herbs have served as Nature's medicine for countless centuries in virtually every culture. Every herb has its own specific properties and is related to a meridian in the body. As a licensed herbologist, Dr. McKenney can prescribe herbal medicines that heal and powerfully complement other treatments. Herbal medicine can often be a safe, effective alternative to prescription medications. Herbs are complex chemical compounds as are prescription drugs and should be used with the knowledge of a licensed herbalist. Moxa, or Mugwort, is an herb used in moxibustion, a therapy that involves the burning of herbs at acupuncture points. It's such an integral part of TCM that the Chinese word "zhenjiu," while translated as "acupuncture," actually means "acupuncture and moxa- burning." The sensation of warmth in burning moxa can be very relaxing, and the heat never gets close enough to the skin to burn. Cupping is a process whereby heated glass jars are applied to the skin to create a vacuum against it; this invigorates the body, stimulates the flow of Qi, and relieves tension and pain. Cupping is used to relieve different types of pain and is excellent for bronchitis or upper respiratory infection. Nutrition is instrumental to health, but while many people realize good nutrition is essential to good health, fewer realize that poor nutrition and nutritional deficiencies can actually cause illness and worsen uncomfortable symptoms. Dr. McKenney offers nutritional counseling and often recommends dietary changes as part of her holistic treatment.

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