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About Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
How Does Acupuncture Work?
What Can I Expect from Acupuncture?
Is Acupuncture Safe?
What Does Acupuncture Treat?
What Does Dr. Gamliel Treat?
Does Acupunture Hurt?
Description of Services
Overview
Detox
Smoking Cessation
Weight loss
Acu-lift
Acupuncture for pain syndromes
Kabbalistic Tree of Life Ascention
Auricular Acupuncture
Cosmetic Acupuncture
Injection Therapy
Electric Acupuncture
Needleless Acupuncture
Infra-red Therapy
Ion Pumping Cords
Insurance Information
What is Acupuncture? View 3 second video>>
Acupuncture is the science, art, and practice of painlessly inserting needles into the body for therapeutic purposes. The hair-fine needles are used to stimulate anatomic-energetic points (called acupoints or acupuncture points) to perform specific biological functions, which promote healing. The acupoint prescription varies from person to person and is based on the individual’s unique manifestation of signs and symptoms. In selecting the acupoints, the acupuncture physician also takes into account the individual’s unique constitution and genetic predispositions.
The acupuncture physician is able to treat multiple conditions at once because acupuncture is a holistic medicine, which encompasses mind, body, and spirit. It is an effective form of treating a wide variety of both acute and chronic health conditions. Acupuncture can also be utilized for health maintenance and prevention of illness.
Depending on the case, the acupoints may be stimulated with heat or electricity to balance the movement of energy (qi) in the body to restore health. When the ear microsystem is used, small plasters with magnetic beads or herbal seeds may be adhered to the ear to prolong the effects of the treatment.
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How Does Acupuncture Work?
There are various mechanisms to explain the wonderful effect of acupuncture on the body.
Acupuncture releases endorphins from the brain, which are responsible for pain reduction. It also disrupts the pain cycle (transmission of pain signal) via the “gate control” theory and thus interferes with the erroneous perception of pain.
Acupuncture also stimulates the secretion of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which have an anti-depressant effect since they are responsible for feelings of ecstasy and euphoria.
Furthermore, acupuncture modulates the immune and circulatory systems triggering the body to utilize its innate resources to restore balance and health through the elimination of toxins and by fighting inflammation from within. In other words, acupuncture helps the body to heal itself.
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What Can I Expect From Acupuncture?
Acupuncture helps to restore balance and wellness. Its broad applications and utilizations can have profound effects on health and longevity. Results vary from person to person depending on the severity of the condition and the length of time the individual has had the condition. In general, the more chronic and severe a health issue is, the longer (more sessions) it takes to treat.
The treatment itself is relaxing and enjoyable. After the needles are inserted, they are retained for 20-45 minutes. The effects of the treatment are often felt immediately after or even during the sessions. In some cases, it can take up to 48-72 hours to gain the maximum benefit from the treatment.
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Is Acupuncture Safe?
The acupuncture needles are disposable. At each acupuncture session, brand new needles are used so there is no risk of disease transmission. In addition, the needles are sterile and made of stainless steel to prevent allergic reactions.
Furthermore, both the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) support the safety of acupuncture as an effective modality for successful treatment of over 40 different health conditions.
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What Does Acupuncture Treat?
In an official report in Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials, the World Health Organization listed the following symptoms, conditions, and diseases that have been shown through controlled trials to be treated effectively by acupuncture:
- low back pain
- neck pain
- sciatica
- tennis elbow
- knee pain
- shoulder pain
- sprains
- facial pain
- headache
- dental pain
- TMJ syndrome
- rheumatoid arthritis
- depression
- induction of labor
- correction of malpositioned fetus
- morning sickness
- nausea and vomiting
- post-operative pain
- low white blood cell count
- adverse reactions to radiation or chemotherapy
- stroke
- high/low blood pressure
- renal and biliary colic (kidney and gallbladder pain)
- allergic rhinitis, including hay fever
- acute bacillary dysentery (diarrhea)
- menstrual cramps
- stomach aches
- peptic ulcer
- acute and chronic gastritis
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What Does Dr. Gamliel Treat?
Doctor Gamliel is a licensed primary care health care provider. She has a family practice where she utilizes natural medicine to treat virtually all conditions that are treated by conventional or allopathic medical doctors. She provides her patients with education, awareness, and options. Her goal is to facilitate healing while allowing the patient to take charge of his/her own health. She provides information, support, guidance, and coaching throughout the entire process.
Some of the conditions that Dr. Gamliel has had great success in treating include: menopause, erectile dysfunction, migraine headaches, arthritis, digestive disorders/constipation, urine incontinence, stress reduction, depression, anxiety, injuries/pain, snoring, congestion, nausea, and smoking cessation. For more information, please read the Patient Testimonials or see http://www.healthprofs.com/502806
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Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Acupuncture is virtually painless. Depending on the location and the condition being treated, the range of sensation can vary from none at all to something similar to a mosquito bite. Even patients who are needle-phobic report feeling increased relaxation, improved quality of sleep, and increased vitality after having an acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture can also boost one’s energy and enhance overall health and wellbeing. Some conditions can be completely eradicated from the body with long-term care combined with dietary, exercise, and lifestyle modifications.
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Description of Services
Overview
Acupuncture and natural medicine work best when proper dietary, lifestyle, and exercise modifications are implemented into the treatment plan. During the acupuncture treatment, Dr. Gamliel creates an individualized treatment plan for each person based on his/her specific and unique needs. Treatment plans may include certain nutrients or supplements, teas, special diets, lifestyle and postural recommendations, exercise prescriptions, and home hydrotherapy treatments. Referrals for services such as lab work, diagnostic imaging, massage, chiropractic care, counseling, or other specialists may also be recommended.
Upon subsequent treatments, modifications may be made to the treatment plan in order to address the individual’s current health status.
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Detox
Numerous health conditions respond favorably to detoxification. Everything from arthritis, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, weight gain and swelling to attention deficit disorder can be treated with thorough detoxification. The organs of elimination and detoxification are stimulated using the auricular (ear) reflexology system. This promotes optimal health through the elimination of toxic waste from the body. The needles are retained for 30-45 minutes. It is ideal to do a series of 6 treatments within 3 weeks.
For best results combine with Dr. recommended detox diet, supplements, teas, sauna, and exercise.
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Smoking Cessation
The acupuncture treatment to quit smoking consists of stimulating the cleansing and purging processes in the body. This helps to eliminate the built-up tar, mucus, and other byproducts of nicotine that are stored within the organs and tissues of the body. Additional points can be incorporated to treat common withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and appetite control. The needles are retained for 30-45 minutes for a total treatment time of one-hour. It is ideal to do a series of 6 treatments within 3 weeks. For additional support, monthly maintenance programs are available. For best results the individual has to want to quit smoking and be ready to kick the habit.
Integrating supplements, meditation/breathing exercises, and personalized doctor recommendations yields superior results.
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Weight loss
In order to lose weight and keep it off, one needs to decrease caloric intake and boost metabolism. Acupuncture can effectively stimulate and support both of these functions through appetite control and by promoting optimal metabolism, digestion, and elimination. The weight management and maintenance plan includes diet, supplement, and exercise recommendations.
It is ideal to do a series of 2 treatments per week for 5 weeks and one monthly treatment for reinforcement and to prevent weight gain.
For superior results, Dr. Gamliel provides an advanced treatment using the homeopathic alternative to mesotherapy. Incorporating this injection therapy treatment helps the body to directly burn fat on a cellular level, lose inches, and reduce cellulite.
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Acu-lift - Cosmetic Services for Face & Body
One of the unique and specialized services that Dr. Gamliel practices is Injection Therapy. When used cosmetically, it provides a safe, non-toxic alternative to face-lifts, botox, and mesotherapy. Dr. Gamliel utilizes FDA approved homeopathic injectable remedies from www.GunaInc.com and www.HeelUSA.com. This highly specialized technique from Italy is currently only available for Acupuncture Physicians in 6 states in the USA!
Facial Rejuvenation - Turn back the hands of time…Naturally!
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Acupuncture for facial rejuvenation helps to combat the signs of aging by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. The “Acu-lift” treatment is an alternative to cosmetic surgery and botox and has no side-effects…only side-benefits! Unlike botox, your facial muscles will not be paralyzed and you will not have diminished facial expression, uneven eyebrows, or headaches.
The “Acu-lift” decreases the appearance of fine-lines, lifts, and tightens the skin of the face and neck while balancing the body and addressing any current health concerns. Results are noticeable after the first treatment and are both gradual and cumulative.
The ideal protocol consists of doing a series of 2 treatments per week for the first week and weekly sessions thereafter for a total of 10 treatments. Monthly treatments are recommended for reinforcement/maintenance and to prevent wrinkling and sagging skin.
Homeopathic collagen injections may be utilized to achieve superior results with fewer sessions. In addition, electric acupuncture may be utilized to tighten the facial muscles.
For optimal results, combine with Dr. recommended diet and hydration, skin care, supplements, and exercise.
Body Sculpting - Discover the natural, safe, non-toxic, cosmetic alternative!
To assist patients in obtaining and maintaining their optimal weight and lean muscle mass, Dr. Gamliel provides a homeopathic alternative to mesotherapy that helps the body to burn fat, lose inches, and reduce cellulite. A series of 10 sessions is considered a course of treatment and monthly sessions are recommended for maintenance.
For optimal results, combine with Dr. recommended diet and hydration, skin care, supplements, and exercise.
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Acupuncture for pain syndromes
Acupuncture can reduce and eliminate pain syndromes associated with arthritis, neuropathy, sciatica, and many other conditions. It works by promoting the secretion of endorphins (the body's innate pain-killers) and by disrupting the transmission of the pain signal for immediate pain relief. The anti-inflammatory and circulatory systems are activated to prevent future episodes. In most cases, the needles are retained 30-45 minutes. Treatments may be combined with infra-red, electric acupuncture, or injection therapy.
It is ideal to do a series of sessions (to be determined at the time of treatment) for optimal results. Nutritional and exercise plans may also be prescribed as needed.
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Kabbalistic Tree of Life Ascention
Using 10 acupuncture points (energy centers) that correspond to the 10 s'phirot (Divine Attributes) of the Kabbalistic Tree of Life, you will journey up the summit of the Tree of Life. To experience the mind-body-spirit ascention, a s'phira specific guided meditation/visualization follows as each of the acu-points is sequentially stimulated. Afterwards, the needles are removed in reverse order. This treatment takes one hour. For best results continue with a regular meditation practice.
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Auricular Acupuncture
Auricular Acupuncture is a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The ear, like the palm and the bottom of the foot, contains a hologram “map” of the entire body including the internal organ system. It is used as a type of reflexology treatment with the ear being a micro-system. The treatment consists of stimulating designated points on the ear by the insertion of tiny needles or using Needleless Acupuncture at specific points related to internal body functions.
Energy or Qi (pronounced CHEE) moves throughout the body and can become blocked, too weak, or stagnant. Auricular acupuncture balances this energy. Physically, auricular acupuncture relaxes and reduces stress, decreases pain, increases energy, boosts immunity, and normalizes sleep. Mentally and emotionally, it helps one feel clear, alert, calm, and focused. Auricular acupuncture can be utilized in stress management, relaxation, for chemical dependency treatment, and much more.
What are some potential benefits? Auricular acupuncture can treat virtually any ailment. It is known to help headaches, body aches, night sweats, sleep disturbances, tremors, anxiety, depression, increase mental clarity, decrease anger, and reduces cravings for alcohol and other drugs. In short, it stimulates the body to heal itself.
Commonly asked questions: "Does it hurt?" Most often, people barely feel the needle go in. Sometimes a point will be sensitive but this small sting or pinch only lasts for a second. Tell the auricular acupuncturist if a needle hurts during treatment and they will adjust it for you. "Is there any danger of infection?" The stainless steal needles are sterile and are used only once so there is virtually no danger of infection.
Why people stop or never start treatment? “I don't like needles.” Auricular acupuncture needles are very different from hypodermic needles. They are not hollow and are much thinner (like the breadth of a hair). It usually does not hurt, especially if you concentrate on your breathing. In addition, instead of needles a special device similar to a TENS unit may be used to give direct stimulation via electrical impulse to the ear. For smoking cessation, a special homeopathic remedy may be injected into the acu-points. Some clinics apply laser therapy to the ear too!
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Cosmetic Acupuncture
Discover Your Beauty & Health Potential!
The practice of acupuncture to enhance beauty dates back to China’s Song Dynasty (960-1279 A.D.). At that time, acupuncture for beautification was utilized by the Empress and the Emperor’s concubines. Known in China as Mei Rong, acupuncture for facial rejuvenation is sometimes referred to as “Cosmetic Acupuncture” in the West.
Some of the benefits of acupuncture for facial rejuvenation include that it:
- Improves muscle tone of the face and neck
- Increases collagen and elastin production
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles
- Eliminates fine lines of aging
- Reduces sagging tendency around the eyes and jowls
- Helps eliminate puffiness by improving metabolism and eliminating excess fluids
- Improves hormonal balance and benefits hormonal acne and rosacea
- Increases circulation and improves facial color
- Moisturizes the skin by increasing local circulation of blood and lymph
- Reduces stress evident in the face
- Promotes overall health and well being
- Brings forth one’s inner beauty and radiance
For optimal results, a series of 10 treatments are recommended. Maintenance sessions are scheduled monthly or according to the individual's needs after the initial series. Results may be seen and felt as early as the first treatment is completed and the effects are cumulative.
Optimal results are obtained when treatment is combined with Dr. recommended diet and hydration, skin care, supplements, and exercise.
For more information please read Cosmetic Services for Face & Body under the Description of Services.
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Injection Therapy
One of the unique and specialized services that Dr. Gamliel practices is Injection Therapy. When used cosmetically, it provides a safe, non-toxic alternative to face-lifts, botox, and mesotherapy. Dr. Gamliel utilizes FDA approved homeopathic* injectable remedies from www.GunaInc.com and www.HeelUSA.com. This highly specialized technique** from Italy is currently only available for Acupuncture Physicians in 6 states in the USA!
For the facial rejuvenation treatment, homeopathic collagen may be utilized to achieve superior results with fewer sessions.
For weight loss, there is a homeopathic alternative to mesotherapy***which helps to burn fat, lose inches, and reduce cellulite.
Another application for injection therapy is to increase the efficacy and potency of the acupuncture treatment. Homeopathic and/or vitamins such as B12, B-complex, Vitamin K, or Vitamin C may be directly administered into the acupuncture points as an adjunctive therapy. Injection therapy is a viable option for treating conditions such as injuries, inflammation, sciatica, anemia, fatigue, neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, nausea, endometriosis, bleeding, immune support, and many others.
*Homeopathic medicine uses highly diluted doses from the plant, mineral, and animal kingdoms to stimulate natural
responses in the body. Homeopathic remedies are based on the theory that "like cures like."
**There is an additional fee for this service/procedure.
***Mesotherapy is a technique that originated in France to reduce/remove fat using microinjections.
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Electric Acupuncture
Electric acupuncture is a technique that is sometimes utilized to promote muscle relaxation, stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage, aid in weight loss, tighten lax muscles, or speed up the healing process of the body. Different waves and frequencies are used to achieve different effects. The amplitude or intensity of the treatment is adjusted according to the patient’s tolerance and may be re-adjusted (usually increased) if accommodation occurs.
There are many indications and utilizations for electric acupuncture. In general, the main applications are those conditions that involve disorders or injuries of the muscles and nerves or the musculoskeletal system. Some examples of conditions that respond well to electric acupuncture include but are not limited to: paralysis, neuropathy, pain conditions, muscle spasm, stroke, atrophy prevention, neuro-muscular re-education, and arthritis or degenerative joint disease.
The device used for this treatment is similar to a TENS unit that is sometimes used in physical therapy or by a chiropractor. The difference is that instead of pads being placed on the body, the electrodes are clipped directly onto the acupuncture needles for increased precision and direct stimulation.
The Acupuncture Physician will determine whether or not this modality is indicated and beneficial for the patient.
For more information, see http://www.itmonline.org/arts/electro.htm
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Acupuncture without Needles - There is something for everyone!
For children who cannot sit still, and any other patients who are unable to handle the thought of needles, there is an alternative to acupuncture: Needle-less acupuncture.
A hand-held therapeutic device is used which detects and treats the necessary body and ear acu-points. The acu-points can thus be stimulated one-by-one with an electric impulse that feels like a gentle tapping sensation.
Stimulating each acupuncture point in the treatment plan for 5 seconds provides an effect similar to a treatment with needles that are retained for half an hour.
The benefit with needles is that acupuncture induces a deep state of relaxation (similar to hypnosis) where the body is hyper-suggestible. In this state, any positive affirmations, prayer, visualization or meditation works synergistically to have an even more powerful or profound effect. Patients often fall asleep during the treatment as well, which is great because the body repairs and rejuvenates itself during sleep. Furthermore, this half-hour of peace and tranquility is especially beneficial for treating stress and stress-related health conditions which are prevalent in society today. This quiet down-time is beneficial in and of itself.
Finally, the amount of time it takes for the blood to fully circulate through the body is approximately twenty-eight minutes. Therefore, by retaining the needles for half an hour, a full cycle of blood and vital energy (qi) are allowed to flow through the body. With the needles strategically placed to fine-tune, repair, and rejuvenate the mind-body-spirit, energy blockages, stagnation, and deficiencies are eliminated and replaced with restored balance, harmony and optimal function and integration. With repeated treatments, the body learns to return to this vibrational state of optimal health and wellbeing.
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Infra-red Therapy
Infrared therapy (IRT) uses a special electro-magnetic therapeutic apparatus known as a TDP Health Lamp. TDP stands for Special Electro-magnetic Therapeutic in Chinese. This healing device is also known as a Far Infrared Mineral Therapy Lamp.
IRT provides deep heat treatment to relax muscles, decrease pain, improve blood and lymphatic circulation, promote oxygenation and nutrient delivery to injured tissues, detoxify, promote cellular metabolism, regulate physiological deficiency, diminish inflammation, and promote healing.
It is often utilized in treating conditions such as arthritis, body aches and pains, cramps, strains and sprains, carpal tunnel syndrome, disk problems, dermatological conditions (such as acne, eczema, dermatitis, herpes zoster, and psoriasis), bowel conditions (such as constipation, Crohn's Disease, diarrhea, and hemorrhoids) internal and external wound healing, and for soft tissue and bone injuries. It can even be used for conditions such as depression, insomnia, and infections. Other applications for this device include heel spurs, plantar fasciitis and many other conditions.
IRT is often used in conjunction with acupuncture for the added benefits and stimulation. The heat can penetrate up to three inches into the body and the sensation felt on the skin is warm and relaxing. The needles do not get hot during this treatment.
Due to the efficacy of its usage in medical treatments, it is FDA approved and has the insurance CPT code 97026.
For more information, see: http://www.ineways.co.uk/
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Ion Pumping Cords
Ion or electron pumping cords are copper wires with a diode placed in between to allow the current to flow in a unidirectional manner. The black or negative cathode is clipped to the acupuncture needle corresponding to the area of excess that needs to be reduced (for example an area of pain) and the red or positive anode is clipped to the acupuncture needle that corresponds to an area of deficiency that needs to be tonified. The cords then act to push ions (electrons) through the body for restoring balance.
Ion pumping cords can be used in all kinds of treatments, especially when the goal is to improve the energy or blood flow in a certain direction (usually from above to below). For example, if there is an injury in the body, the cords can be placed above and below the injured area to promote the flow of energy through the area. Other uses include but are not limited to neuropathy, burns, trauma, acute and chronic pain conditions, stagnation conditions (such as depression) and circulatory disorders.
For more information, see: http://www.geocities.com/ionpumpingcords/infopage1.html
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Insurance
Dr. Gamliel is a registered provider with Blue Cross Blue Shield and is considered an “Out of Network” provider for most other PPO insurances. Unfortunately, HMOs do not cover acupuncture at this time.
By switching from HMO to PPO insurance, you are able to see any doctor that YOU choose and you are not limited to needing referrals. If you have an HMO plan, payment will be required at the time of service. If payment is made out of pocket, patients may request a superbill to submit to their insurance companies directly, in attempt to collect the dues that they paid via cash or check.
If you would like to make an appointment and want to know what your insurance benefits are, please complete the Insurance Verification Form and fax it to Dr. Gamliel’s office. Please fill out this form ONLY if you have a PPO insurance provider. HMO plans do not give acupuncture benefits.
If you have a PPO, Dr. Gamliel’s billing agent will verify your benefits and you will be informed about the coverage under your plan within 48 hours. Some plans have high deductibles that need to be met before coverage can begin. Other plans may limit the amount of treatments and the types of diagnoses (for example: limited use for pain conditions only) that are covered per year and some plans may only cover a percentage of the visit or have an office co-pay.
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