Points to Consider ACUPUNCTURE FOR MENTAL AND PHYSICAL

BY: JESSICA DUSEK

Renewal

medicine, there are believed to be over 2,000 of these acupuncture points throughout the entire human body.

Today, acupuncture has gained popularity in improving organ imbalances, sports soft-tissue injuries, depression, smoking, addiction and pregnancy pains, among other possible body misalignments. It can be a game changer. Individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), among similar diagnoses, have also shown increased focus and improved attention spans through applied acupuncture treatments. In cases with attention issues, acupuncture can support children and adults with irregular brain firing through traditional or enhanced electroacupuncture — small doses of electricity connected to correlated acupuncture brain points. “ADHD treatments [are] for mood enhancing, and help with depression,” added Dr. Choi.

For three millennia, the healing practice of acupuncture has been used to support the body’s nervous and immune systems. “Acupuncture works for organs or any kind of pain,” explained Dr. Choi, of Master Choi’s Acupuncture in Corpus Christi. “Everyone has something,” he laughed. Daily or long-term issues such as migraines, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis or weight loss can show improvements with acupuncture support.

A South Korean native, Dr. Choi began practicing acupuncture in 1994, after many years of teaching martial arts. He discovered that working within acupuncture only felt natural, and carried his knowledge of the ancient practice to the United States. “I was going to retire, but I got so many patients,” explained the 80-year-old acupuncturist. “I’m happy when they get well,” he said of the healing observed within his patients. “That’s why I do it!”

According to ancient Chinese medicine, 12 energy meridians run throughout the body, much like a highway system, producing the body’s life force energy, known as Qi. Needles placed on specific acupuncture points stimulate the nervous system. The acupuncturist’s goal is to restore any imbalances within the area of focus — and the body as a whole. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, in traditional Chinese

Dr. Choi also emphasizes that “mindset” and belief of healing play an integral role, in addition to diet and exercise.

And if you’re uncomfortable around needles, the ones used in acupuncture are known for being petite with their hair-thin structure, commonly ranging from 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm in diameter. Compared to a trip to the doctor’s office for a routine blood draw, acupuncture needles are felt less, only penetrating the top layers of the skin or muscles.

According to Dr. Choi, some patients can show improvements faster than others, “It depends on how the body responds, and heredity,” he explained. Treatments are customized to the individual’s needs, with the option of prescribed herbal supplements to support. The patient’s commitment and dedication to healing is key.

The power behind acupuncture could become a powerful tool to utilize in the year ahead with an improved outlook, balance and perhaps, overall quality of life.

CONTACT: choi-acupuncture.com

Alissa M. Chapman, D.D.S. Pediatric Dentist

Dr. Alissa Chapman was born and raised in Corpus Christi. She received her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Trinity University and is a graduate from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio- School of Dentistry.

Dr. Chapman is married and has three children and an assortment of pets. She stays active in our community and volunteers with Charity League, Fiesta De Los Ninos, and Paws and Claws.

She enjoys running and doing group workout classes. She loves treating children and young adults and feels blessed to work at Kennedy Dental Care.