If you suffer from any combination of musculosketal pain, stress, GI issues, depression, insomnia, or general injuries, acupuncture is seriously worth a try. I always had a fear of it because of how it looks in photos and movies, but it's good to face our fears every once in a while, especially if it is for something that can provide immense relief and healing. Keep reading for more information about acupuncture from Traci Bredenkamp, an acupuncturist working in St. Charles.
About Acupuncture on Main
My name is Traci Bredenkamp, LAc. I am a licensed acupuncturist and Board certified by the NCCAOM (National Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine). I am a graduate of the prestigious Won Institute outside Philadelphia, PA and received a thorough education encompassing both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Five Element (5e) style acupuncture.
I love to educate clients on what acupuncture is, the complex and deep theory of it, and how sound is infused into all treatments to provide one with greater peace, tranquility and healing. It is my hope that people choose acupuncture and alternative wellness alongside Western medicine because the two go together beautifully. All clients receive a free analysis with their acupuncture treatment and a take-home sheet of what acupuncture points, adjunct modalties and sound methods were used in their treatment and why. I specialize in pain management, emotional issues, spiritual growth and the fusion of spirituality incorporated into health in simple, practical ways. I also love to treat people who just want to maintain their current health status and stay balanced. I often explain that doing treatments with me is like putting deposits in your health bank. The more you do now the more dividends it pays later. This goes for all healthy lifestyle choices, whether it be exercise, yoga, meditation, being a health food nut, taking supplements, and/or getting acupuncture.
Treatments
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a safe, effective and natural method used for thousands of years to treat a wide variety of ailments and medical conditions. Acupuncture needles used are thin, sterile, single-use needles - thin as a human hair! Insertion of these needles into acupuncture points is helps to strengthen your energy, health, and vitality. The goal of treatment is to re-establish balance and restore better levels of health and vitality. Acupuncture is particularly effective for pain and stress relief but can treat a variety of ailments by supporting the body’s natural inclination to achieve homeostasis - or simply put to be whole and function optimally.
Cupping
Cupping is a traditional practice that can be found in many different cultures. During cupping, silicone, glass and/or plastic cups are suctioned onto the patient to help increase the flow of qi and blood through the body. A technique of sliding the cups along tight muscle bands works very well to release tension and adhesions within the muscle. Cupping also works to pull stagnation or toxins from the patient through the skin. Cupping on the upper back can be very effective for the treatment of the common cold. Wet cupping combines bleeding a point or points through a painless lancet and then cupping over it. This is great for knee pain!
Gua Sha
Gua Sha is similar to cupping in that it helps to increase qi and blood to the area. It is performed by using a tool in a repetitive motion firmly across a tight area of musculature. It is effective in breaking up adhesions and knots within the muscles and allowing the qi and blood to once again to provide nourishment to the area. Gua Sha can be used in place of cupping in harder to reach areas of the body such as the nape and sides of the neck. It is a good adjunct technique to use when treating headaches or upper back issues.