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Education & Resources

Welcome to our Education & Resources hub, where we provide valuable insights into Classical East Asian Medicine, holistic healing, and self-care practices. Whether you're new to acupuncture and herbal medicine or looking to deepen your understanding, you'll find comprehensive information here.
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Basics of Chinese Medicine: Principles & Practice

Exploring the Foundations of a Time-Honored Healing System
Chinese Medicine is an ancient, comprehensive healing system with over 5,000 years of history. It is built on the belief that true health arises from the balance of internal energies and the harmonious interplay between the body, mind, and environment. This holistic approach offers unique insights into maintaining well-being and treating illness by addressing the root causes rather than merely suppressing symptoms.
At the heart of Chinese Medicine is the concept of Qi—vital energy that flows through interconnected pathways, or meridians, throughout the body. The proper flow of Qi is essential to maintaining health, and any disruption or imbalance can manifest as physical or emotional ailments. Practitioners utilize diagnostic techniques such as pulse and tongue examination to assess the state of this energy flow, which allows for highly individualized treatment plans. Whether through acupuncture, which stimulates specific points along the meridians, or through carefully tailored herbal remedies, the goal is to restore balance and facilitate the body’s natural healing processes.

In addition to these treatments, Chinese Medicine embraces a broader understanding of health. The practice considers factors such as diet, lifestyle, and even the environment when diagnosing and treating conditions. By taking a comprehensive approach, it addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying imbalances that lead to chronic conditions. For those interested in deepening their understanding, our glossary of key Chinese Medicine terms offers detailed explanations of fundamental concepts, and our Media & Resource Library includes articles, expert insights, and research papers. We also suggest exploring the WHO’s documentation on the global recognition and integration of Chinese Medicine, which highlights its relevance in modern healthcare systems. This rich blend of tradition and science not only underscores the efficacy of Chinese Medicine but also its enduring appeal as a holistic healthcare approach
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Common Questions & Myths

Clearing the Fog Around Classical East Asian Medicine

We understand that trying something new—especially a centuries-old medical system—can come with lots of questions. Below are some of the most common questions and misconceptions we hear in clinic, answered with honesty and clarity.

Q: Is acupuncture painful?

A: Not really. Most people are surprised at how gentle it is. The needles are hair-thin, and while you might feel a quick sensation, it's usually followed by deep relaxation. Many people even fall asleep during treatment.

Is this just a placebo or a wellness trend?

No. Classical East Asian Medicine has been used by over a quarter of the world for thousands of years—and continues to be integrated into hospitals worldwide. It's not a trend; it’s a time-tested system of medicine.

Is this the same as "Dry Needling"?

No. Dry needling is a limited technique borrowed from acupuncture but often performed with minimal training. Acupuncturists study thousands of hours to safely and effectively treat the whole person—not just local muscle tension.

Myth: "It’s only for pain."

Truth: While acupuncture is famous for pain relief, it also supports sleep, digestion, immune function, hormonal balance, mood regulation, and more. We treat everything from allergies to autoimmune conditions.

Do I have to get acupuncture to be treated here?

No. We offer a range of treatments including herbal consultations, massage therapy, cupping, and Qi Gong. Some patients never receive acupuncture and still benefit greatly.

What is Qi, really?

Qi (pronounced “chee”) simply means energy or vitality. Think of it as the life force that drives all physiological functions—like digestion, circulation, healing, and even mental clarity. When Qi flows freely, health thrives.

Myth: "You have to believe in it for it to work."

Truth: This medicine doesn’t rely on belief. It works by interacting with the body’s natural systems—just like any form of physical medicine. Results come from correct diagnosis and consistent treatment, not faith.

Is it safe?

Yes—when performed by a licensed practitioner. We use sterile, single-use needles and herbs sourced from GMP-certified suppliers. The risk of side effects is extremely low compared to most modern medical interventions.

Research & Articles

Bridging Ancient Wisdom and Modern Evidence

At Dunning Acupuncture & Massage, we honor the deep roots of Classical East Asian Medicine while staying informed about modern research. Our aim is to provide both time-tested insights and emerging studies that validate the efficacy of this medicine in today’s world.

Recommended Reading & Resources
World Health Organization (WHO):
The WHO officially recognizes acupuncture as effective for dozens of conditions.
→ View WHO Report on Acupuncture

ICEAM Herbal Lineage:
Classical herbalism with a strong diagnostic framework rooted in pulse analysis.
→ Institute of Classics in East Asian Medicine

Sundo Practice:
Ancient Korean Qi Gong and meditation for energy cultivation and internal balance.
→ Learn More at Sundo.org

Clinical Research Highlights:
Join our mailing list to receive updates on the latest clinical research and case studies shared in the Classical East Asian Medicine community. (link to newsletter sign-up)

Facebook Acupuncture Research Group:
A robust hub of case studies, emerging science, and peer discussion. (Link available upon consultation or request.)
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