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Acupuncture Specialist

A Path to Natural Health

Naturopathic Doctor located in Issaquah, WA

Acupuncture is based on the belief that health is determined by a balanced flow of Qi, the vital life energy present in all living organisms. As a licensed acupuncturist, Dr. Maura Scanlan can help balance your Qi and revitalize your health. Men and women living in the area of Issaquah, Washington, can make an appointment at A Path to Natural Health by calling the office or using the convenient online booking option.

Acupuncture Q & A

How does acupuncture work?

According to acupuncture theory, Qi (pronounced “chee”) circulates in the body along energy pathways called meridians, each linked to specific internal organs and organ systems. An unbalanced or impeded flow of Qi can lead to many symptoms and illness. The underlying purpose of acupuncture is to remove the obstruction, which restores the flow of Qi back to each organ and its surrounding tissue. Acupuncture stimulates specific points on the body by the insertion of thin, sterile, disposable, metal needles through the skin.

What types of conditions does acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture has many applications and offers a solution to many ailments, including:

  • Headaches and migraines
  • Allergies
  • Muscle pain and spasms
  • Back and neck pain
  • Digestive problems
  • Mood issues, including depression
  • Osteoarthritis

What happens during an acupuncture session?

Dr. Scanlan inserts acupuncture needles into points along the meridians to stimulate the Qi energy of the body. Each point has a predictable effect on the Qi that is moving through it. Dr. Scanlan chooses points based on your symptoms, as well as a pulse assessment and tongue diagnosis that she performs. She uses sterile, disposable needles of the finest quality to ensure that patients have no risk of infection.

What treatments complement acupuncture?

Acupuncture practice involves a variety of techniques to stimulate specific points on the body, usually using needles. However, Dr. Scanlan offers a variety of other treatments that work in conjunction with acupuncture. These include:

Electrical stimulation: Interferential microcurrent-electrical stimulation of the muscles is used to increase blood flow to tissues, decrease pain, and promote healing. It can be used for injury rehabilitation.

Cupping therapy: Local suction is created on the skin, which mobilizes blood flow in order to promote healing.

Tui Na: This is a Chinese form of massage therapy for tight muscles.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles, but they’re so thin that the treatment is well-tolerated by most people. You may feel a slight tingling as the needle is inserted and experience a dull ache around the insertion site, but many people consider the treatment to be comfortable and almost painless.

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