Acupuncture
About Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used forms of medicine in the world. Originating in China more than 2,500 years ago, acupuncture is currently one of the most thoroughly researched, practiced, and respected forms of holistic medicine available.
According to Chinese Medicine, your overall health is determined by 5 main factors:
The flow of oxygen/function of your body (Qi)
The flow of blood in your body (Xue)
The health of your blood vessels (Xue Mai)
The health of your organs (Zang Fu)
The health of your nervous system (Jing Mai)
Acupuncture uses a variety of techniques, including placing very thin sterile needles into specific points on the body, to stimulate and influence these 5 factors. The many benefits of acupuncture include:
Pain reduction
Muscle relaxation and circulation
Strengthening and supporting joints and movement
Stress and tension relief
Increased energy levels
Stronger digestion
Immune system enhancement
Relief from unhealthy habits and addictions
Greater sense of overall health and well-being
What Can Acupuncture Treat:
Acupuncture has been recognized by national and international health organizations to be effective in treating a wide variety of medial problems. Below are some of the health concerns that acupuncture can help with:
Adverse reactions to Chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy
Abdominal pain
Allergic rhinitis
Bell’s Palsy
Cancer pain
Chronic gastritis
Diabetes mellitus
Digestive Complaints
Painful Menstruation
Earache
Facial pain/spasm
Fertility issues
Fibromyalgia
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sciatica
Sleep disturbances
Spine pain
Sprain
Stress and Anxiety
Stiff neck
Stroke
TMJ dysfunction
Tennis and Golfer’s elbow
Tobacco dependence
Many other conditions, ask your acupuncturist
Headache
Herpes Zoster
High blood pressure
Knee pain
Male sexual dysfunction
Morning sickness
Nausea and vomiting
Neck pain
Osteoarthritis
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Postoperative pain
Premenstrual syndrome
Raynaud Syndrome
What To Expect:
When you visit Holly Polinkus, Licensed Acupuncturist at Cedar Mill Chiropractic, your first appointment will begin with a comprehensive health evaluation. Holly will review your medical history, discuss your current symptoms, and ask questions about your lifestyle and overall well-being. She will also examine your pulse and tongue and may perform a brief physical assessment.
Based on this information, Holly will develop a personalized diagnosis and acupuncture treatment plan to support your health goals. Each session typically lasts between 45 and 60 minutes and may include additional recommendations for continued care and healing.
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin—about the width of a cat’s whisker—and are always single-use and sterile. During treatment, you may experience mild sensations, such as tingling, warmth, or a dull ache, at the insertion points. These are normal signs that your body is responding to the treatment.
After your session, many patients feel deeply relaxed, balanced and often experience a boost in energy or improved well-being.
How To Prepare:
Write down and bring any questions you have.
Make sure you are fed, hydrated and not in a rush when you come in for treatment.
Refrain from overexertion, tough work outs, drugs or alcohol for up to 6 hours after treatment.
Avoid stressful situations. Make time to relax and be sure to get plenty of rest and water.
Between visits, make note of any changes that may have occurred, such as alleviation of pain, pain moving to other areas, or changes in the frequency and type of symptoms.
Education Requirements For Acupuncturists:
Today, acupuncturists undertake three to four years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in every state.
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

