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Chinese-style acupuncture is a professional healthcare modality involving the insertion of fine, sterile, single-use needles into specific points on the body based on Chinese medicine theory. It is a holistic practice that focuses on treating the individual by assessing symptoms such as pain, stress, and fatigue.

Neoclassical Acupuncture is a palpatory-based style of acupuncture that emphasizes immediate clinical feedback through physical assessment. It is characterized by: 

• Diagnostic Palpation: Practitioners use systematic palpation of the body (elements, organs, and meridians) to identify "blocks" or energetic imbalances.

• Minimalist Intervention: The method aims to achieve a systemic response, often utilizing a small number of needles (frequently as few as one to three) to address identified imbalances based on the "architecture" of the meridian system.

• Symptomatic Management: As a regulated health service, it is used to assist in the management of symptoms such as pain, stress, and tension.

The Balance Method is a style of acupuncture that focuses on rapid pain relief and functional improvement by balancing one area of the body with another, rather than needling the painful spot itself.

Origins

The method was systematized and widely taught by Dr. Richard Tan, drawing on classical Chinese acupuncture principles within Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Core Principles of the Balance Method

1. Distal Needling (Not Local)

Instead of needling where the pain is, the practitioner needles a different, corresponding body area (often on the opposite limb).
Example: shoulder pain may be treated using points on the leg or forearm.

2. Mirror & Image Systems

The body is viewed as a set of reflections:

• Arm ↔ leg

• Upper body ↔ lower body

• Left ↔ right

If one area hurts, its “mirror” or “image” area is treated.

3. Meridian Balancing

Each acupuncture meridian can balance another. Common relationships include:

• Six-System relationships (e.g., Tai Yang balances Tai Yin)

• Interior–exterior pairs

• Opposite clock meridians

The practitioner selects a meridian that balances the affected one, then needles points on that balancing meridian.

4. Immediate Feedback

A defining feature is instant assessment:

• Patients are asked to move or reassess pain right after needling

• Point selection can be adjusted in real time for optimal effect

5. Minimal Needles, Maximum Effect

Typically uses few needles (often 1–6), making it efficient and comfortable for patients.

What It’s Commonly Used For

• Musculoskeletal pain (neck, back, joints)

• Sports injuries

• Headaches and migraines

• Some internal or functional disorders

Pain relief is often felt within minutes, though chronic conditions may require multiple sessions.

How It Differs from Other Acupuncture Styles

• Less focus on diagnosis via tongue/pulse

• Less emphasis on local or “ashi” points

• Highly systematic and mathematical

• Strong emphasis on function and results

What is Electroacupuncture?

Electroacupuncture is a modern variation of traditional acupuncture. During this process, a practitioner inserts fine, sterile needles into specific points and then attaches them to a specialized device using small electrodes. This device passes a gentle, low-voltage electrical current through the needles, providing continuous and adjustable stimulation to the targeted areas. 

Electroacupuncture may assist with managing symptoms related to certain conditions. Based on current acceptable evidence, electroacupuncture is often utilised to help manage: 

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• Musculoskeletal Pain:

• Symptoms associated with chronic lower back pain, knee osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia.

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• Post-Operative Recovery:

• Assisting with pain management following surgical procedures.

• Neurological Symptoms: Symptoms related to conditions such as peripheral facial paralysis or neuropathic pain.

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• Specific Symptoms:

• Manage nausea, vomiting, or hot flashes, particularly as side effects of other treatments. 

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Sensations and Experience:

Rather than sharp pain, the electrical stimulation typically creates a range of unique sensations: 

• Tingling or Buzzing: A mild electrical or vibrating feeling under the skin.

• Gentle Tapping or Pulsing: A rhythmic sensation that often replaces the need for manual needle manipulation.

• Muscle Twitching: In some cases, the current may cause a brief, involuntary muscle contraction.

• Individualized Comfort: The intensity is always adjusted to the patient's specific comfort level. 

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Electroacupuncture is generally not recommended for individuals with: 

• Implanted Electronic Devices: Such as pacemakers or internal defibrillators.

• A History of Seizures: Or certain other neurological conditions.

• Certain Heart Conditions: Including cardiac arrhythmias.

• Pregnancy: Caution is advised, particularly in specific areas of the body.

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