Acupuncture For Colds / Flu

How Acupuncture Can Help Alleviate Colds and Flu: A Natural Path to Faster Recovery

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Colds and the flu are common viral infections that affect millions of people each year, especially during the colder months. These illnesses can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including sore throat, congestion, coughing, body aches, and fever. While these symptoms are typically short-lived, they can disrupt daily life, leading to missed work, sleepless nights, and a general feeling of malaise. Conventional treatments often focus on symptom relief, using over-the-counter medications such as decongestants, pain relievers, and cough suppressants. However, these medications may come with side effects and do not address the underlying causes of the illness.

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Many individuals are turning to acupuncture as a complementary therapy to help alleviate the symptoms of colds and the flu and to promote faster recovery. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of "Qi," or vital energy, and to support the body’s natural healing processes. Acupuncture not only targets the symptoms of colds and flu but also strengthens the immune system, helping the body fight off the viral infection more effectively.

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Unlike conventional treatments that mainly offer temporary symptom relief, acupuncture works holistically to restore balance within the body, addressing both the symptoms and the underlying imbalances that may make one more susceptible to colds and the flu. By incorporating acupuncture into your wellness routine, you can enhance your body’s resilience, reduce the severity of symptoms, and recover more quickly from these common ailments.

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Benefits of Acupuncture for Colds and Flu

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Symptom Relief: Acupuncture can help alleviate common cold and flu symptoms such as sore throat, congestion, headaches, and body aches by promoting the release of endorphins and improving circulation.

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Immune System Support: Regular acupuncture sessions can help strengthen the immune system, making it more effective at fighting off viral infections and reducing the likelihood of catching a cold or the flu in the first place.

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Reduced Inflammation: Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory system, which can alleviate symptoms like sinus congestion and coughing, making it easier to breathe and rest.

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Enhanced Energy and Recovery: Acupuncture can boost energy levels and combat the fatigue that often accompanies colds and the flu. This can help speed up recovery and restore vitality more quickly.

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Complementary to Conventional Treatments: Acupuncture can be safely used alongside conventional cold and flu treatments, such as antiviral medications or decongestants. It can enhance the effectiveness of these treatments by addressing the root causes of illness and supporting overall healing.

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What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

 

1. Please eat a moderate amount of food 1 to 1.5 hours before your appointment. Acupuncture moves a lot of energy in your body so eating something prior to your appointment will insure your body has energy to move. If you can’t have a meal, a nutritious snack is OK. A bag of chips and a can of soda do not count as a nutritious snack.

2. Arrive 5- 10 minutes early so you can fill out your Patient Condition Assessment and use the rest room prior to your treatment.

3. If you require a refill of your herbs, please notify the front desk at this time.

4. Take everything with you to the appropriate treatment room.

5. You will be asked to remove your shoes and socks and adjust your clothing as necessary. We ask that you wear loose clothing so there is easy access to your legs up to mid-thigh, arms including shoulders, abdomen and back. If you prefer, you can change clothes in the treatment room or change into a gown provided by Best Acupuncture. If you are uncertain, ask the acupuncture assistant how clothing should be moved, ie: moving pant legs above the knee, etc. You may be instructed to lie on your stomach for a face down treatment; the acupuncture assistant will assist you with a gown and provide you with instruction.

6. Whenever possible, arrange your schedule so you do not have to rush to, or away from your appointment.

7. If you must leave right away or earlier than the allotted time, please tell us at the beginning of your appointment.

8. Please do NOT brush or scrape the coating from your tongue on that day of your treatment. Tongue analysis is one of the unique aspects of Chinese medical diagnosis, and seeing the tongue in its natural state will greatly assist the acupuncturist in establishing a treatment strategy.

9. Cell phones should be turned off to ensure maximum relaxation for yourself and others once you have entered the treatment room.

 

To Make Your Treatment Most Effective, please remember the following:

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1. Do not submerge in water (shower, bath, hot tub, etc) for at least 8 hours after.

2. No rigorous activities or exercise for at least 8 hours after.

3. Drink plenty of water to help flush the toxins released during you treatment. There are eight basic ways the body can eliminate toxins: through the skin, ears, nose, mouth, eyes, digestive system, urination, and the reproductive organs.

4. Reserve your energy and try to rest as much as possible This energy is for you; try not to give it away.

5. Please make us aware if you start or stop any of the following activities: exercise, diet, supplements and medications throughout your treatments with us.

6. Pay close attention to your body’s response over the next 24-48 hours. Your feedback is vital in identifying your body’s rate of response. Pay close attention to the frequency, intensity and duration of your top three primary complaints.

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