An Introduction to Oriental Medicine

By Jaimie Champagne, Lic.Ac., MAOM, Dipl.Ac.

   

Oriental Medicine is a complete medical system that has been used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness.  The goal of treatment in Oriental Medicine is to adjust and harmonize energy, or Qi (pronounced "chee"), within our body. 

    Qi, (translated as "life force") travels throughout our bodies via a network of channels called meridians.  Meridians can be thought of as rivers of energy that irrigate and nourish cells, tissues, organs, and muscles.  When Qi is flowing freely and evenly through the meridians one is in a state of balance and good health.  If the free-flow of Qi is obstructed or if energy is depleted, pain and illness may arise.  Many factors can contribute to disrupting this delicate balance including injury and trauma, poor nutrition, emotional or physical stress, lack of exercise, overworking, environmental stressors, exposure to toxins and individual constitution. 

    Practitioners of Oriental Medicine are trained to diagnose and treat a Qi imbalance.  Oriental Medicine is holistic in nature, so all aspects of an individual are considered diagnostically relevant.  Even the smallest detail tells about the entirety of an individual and can be an important clue towards diagnosing an imbalance.  During you initial appointment, practitioners of Oriental Medicine gather information by asking questions regarding all aspects of an individual's health.  Practitioners may palpate acupoints, locations found along meridians, to identify tender or reactive areas.  Pulses will be taken and variables such as rate, depth, strength, and quality are felt.  The tongue will be examined and color, shape, cracks and coating will be noted.   

    Once a practitioner of Oriental Medicine has completed the intake process, a Qi "disharmony" or diagnosis is concluded and appropriate treatment is considered on an individual basis for each client.  Many different treatment options are available in Oriental Medicine to restore a state of Qi balance and wellness.  Practitioners may use a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, heat therapy, massage, dietary counseling, and lifestyle suggestions to treat and prevent illness, disease and pain.

 

  

Jaimie Champagne, Lic.Ac., MAOM, Dipl.Ac. has recently expanded her
Boston-based acupuncture and herbal practice by joining Berkana
Massage & Bodywork Therapies in January 2008.  Jaime graduated from The
New England School of Acupuncture with a Master's degree in Acupuncture
and Oriental Medicine after earning a Bachelor's degree in biology from
Boston University.  Jaimie is licensed to practice acupuncture in New
Hampshire and Massachusetts and is nationally certified with the NCCAOM.  

For more information about Oriental Medicine, visit her website at www.acupuncturewholehealth.com. 

Click here for Jaimie's Office Hours and contact information