Acupuncture In the Clinic

TCM uses a system of sign and symptom pattern recognition and treatment. These signs and symptoms are determined through a consistent series of questioning, examination of the tongue, and palpation of the pulse. Patients may present with a simple pattern or, more commonly, with multiple patterns. The combinations of patterns explains how, in practice, TCM can treat such varied complaints.

As a TCM practitioner, the challenge is to figure out the patterns and prioritize treatment. Once the pattern is identified the practitioner uses his or her tools: acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and dietary and lifestyle recommendations to bring the flow of Qi and other natural states in the body back to a balanced state resulting in amelioration or relief of symptoms. TCM does not claim to cure the disease, only to relieve the symptoms by bringing the body to a balanced state of health. If the balance is maintained, symptoms will not return.