ACUPUNCTURE – CAPE TOWN

Acupuncture is based on the notion that the body’s vital energy force (Qi), travels through pathways known as channels or “meridians.” The acupuncturist (Dr Lulu Beyers) inserts tiny, thin sterile needles at particular, selected Acu-points on the body to assist in the unblocking or correcting the flow of energy. These needles are hardly felt as they are inserted and are left in place for about 15 to 20 minutes. Most patients fall asleep, due to its incredibly relaxing effect. 

According to WHO (World Health Organization) Acupuncture is found to be effective for treating 28 conditions, while evidence indicates it may have an effective therapeutic value for many more.

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?

In Western societies, acupuncture’s effect is explained through concepts of neuroscience where Acupuncture points are seen as places where nerves, muscles and connective tissue can be stimulated. Findings from basic research have begun to elucidate the mechanisms of action of acupuncture, including the release of opioids and other peptides in the central nervous system and the periphery and changes in neuro-endocrine function.
In TCM this stimulation is seen to increase blood flow to certain areas, thereby removing stagnation – and alleviating both pain and other symptoms.

WHICH CONDITIONS CAN BE TREATED WITH ACUPUNCTURE?

• Musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoarthritis, sciatica, lumbago, low back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, shoulder and neck pain, ‘frozen shoulder’, and ‘tennis elbow’.
• Neurological conditions such as headaches, migraines, difficulty sleeping, nervous tension, stroke, facial and inter-costal neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia, some forms of paralysis, sequelae of poliomyelitis, peripheral neuropathy, tinnitus, dizziness, and Meniere’s disease.
• Cardiovascular disorders such as high or low blood pressure, fluid retention, chest pain, angina pectoris, poor circulation, cold hands and feet, and muscle cramps.
• Respiratory conditions such as bronchial asthma, acute and chronic bronchitis, acute tonsillitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, hay fever, chronic cough, laryngitis, sore throat, influenza and the common cold.
• Digestive system disorders such as toothache, post-extraction pain, gingivitis, mouth ulcers, spasms of the oesophagus, gastric and duodenal ulcers, gastric hyperacidity, gastritis, heartburn, hiatus hernia syndrome, flatulence, paralytic ileus, colitis, diarrhoea, constipation, haemorrhoids, liver and gall bladder disorders, and weight control.
• Urogenital disorders such as cystitis, prostatitis, low sexual vitality, urinary retention, kidney disorders, nocturnal enuresis, and neurogenic bladder dysfunction.
• Gynaecological and obstetric disorders such as premenstrual tension, painful, heavy or irregular, or the absence of periods, abnormal uterine bleeding or discharge, hormonal disturbances, disorders associated with menopause, prolapse of the uterus or bladder, difficulty with conception, and morning sickness.
• Skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, nerve rash, herpes zoster, acne, scar tissue and resultant adhesions, hair loss and dandruff.
• Eye conditions such as visual disorders, red, sore, itchy or watery eyes, conjunctivitis, simple cataracts, myopia in children, and central retinitis.
• Sporting injuries such as sprained ankles and knees, cartilage problems, corking and tearing of muscles, torn ligaments and bruises.
• Psychological conditions such as depression, phobias, emotional disturbances, anxiety, nervousness and addictions such as smoking.

The disorders above which appear in bold have been recognised by the World Health Organisation as having been successfully treated by acupuncture. The disorders which do not appear in bold above are other common disorders which have been found to respond well to acupuncture.

MOXIBUSTION

Moxibustion is the slow burning on or over the body of special herbal “cones.” These are placed on specific acupoints and provide penetrating, relaxing heat. Moxibustion warms and opens the channels.

Moxa is produced from the dried and compressed leaves of the mugwort or Ai Ye plant. Moxibustion is used to strengthen the body’s vitality and stimulate its natural capacity to heal and can be used to treat various diseases, disorders, and pain.

Moxibustion and Acupuncture are often paired and complement each other to form one mode of therapy, boosting the overall therapeutic effect.

Clinically it increases blood cell counts especially that of white blood cells, which strengthens the immune system. The heat produced from the burning moxa penetrates deeply into underlying tissues improving circulation and helping to reduce both pain and inflammation. If done properly, the heat of the

Moxibustion can penetrate into the core of the pain location and can have results far surpassing that of pain medication. It requires patience, but with long-term application of Moxibustion it is possible to revitalize tissue that has had almost irreversible damage. The Parasympathetic nervous system (rest and relax mode) is stimulated with Moxibustion Therapy leading to an increase in appetite, digestion, and bowel function, while reducing stress and sleeplessness and balancing hormonal function.

For an comprehensive consultation, contact the White Lotus in Cape Town, Kloof street, to book your appointment with Dr Lulu Beyers.

Read more about:
Dr Lulu Beyers
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture

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