What is Oriental Medicine?
The term “Oriental Medicine” is used to describe several of the ancient medicine principles used in oriental cultures, all of which have some origin in what is commonly called TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). Principles of Oriental Medicine (TCM) are based on natural physical laws, which govern our universe. One of these laws is the “Law of Opposites” called the law of Yin and Yang. Those who practice Oriental Medicine utilize these natural laws to bring about a balance of energy that then yields a balance of mind/body and spirit. Some of these modalities used in Oriental Medicine are Acupuncture, Shiatsu/Acupressure, Tui Na Massage, Herbal Prescriptions, Nutritional and Lifestyle Counseling, Feng Shui, Tai Chi and Qi Gong.

What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese Medicine dating back over 5,000 years. It is based on the concept that the body has specific channels (meridians) through which energy (chi) flows. While this energy, or chi is flowing smoothly, there will be no specific pain or disease, but if the chi is either deficient or excess in quantity, or is not flowing freely, there will be disease. When acupuncture needles are placed in specific points on the skin, energy is redirected to bring about a healing response.

What Can Acupuncture Treat?
The World Health Organization recognizes Acupuncture to be effective treatment for over 35 common illnesses, which are:

Respiratory Problems: Asthma; sinusitis; allergic rhinitis
Gastrointestinal Problems: Heartburn; abdominal pain; irritable colon; diarrhea; constipation
Gynecological Disorders: PMS; painful periods; fertility enhancement
Musculoskeletal: Low back pain; muscle, tendon, or joint pain; sports injuries
Neurological Disorders: Chronic headaches; sciatica; nerve injuries; chronic pain

How many Treatments will I need?
The number of treatments varies with each individual. In the ancient texts, 10 treatments were prescribed empirically for all health problems. Clinical experience has shown that for some reason, the prescription holds true to this day. The practitioner will evaluate each individual according to the response achieved from the treatment. Some people may require more, and some may require less than the empirical “ten”.

What is the Treatment like?
The most common response that patients from our center give about their treatment is that it was “relaxing”. The treatments are delivered in a quiet environment. Patients can enjoy lying on a comfortable massage table, and can listen to relaxing music during treatments. Aromatherapy, massage, and meditative exercises are often employed during treatment to enhance the healing benefits.

Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine
658 Kenilworth Drive, Suite 206, Towson Maryland 21204
(410)828-3585