Your doctor of oriental medicine does not simply look for disease in your body, instead, she or he looks for a global imbalance involving your entire body, mind and spirit. The condition you're seeking help for can only exist within that imbalance. When balance is restored the condition can no longer exist.

Consequently, the intent of your doctor is to encourage your body's innate healing response -- to promote help, rather than suppress symptoms or pathogens. In this way, disease is resolved normally. Perhaps more than any other feature, it is this force on your overall health which makes oriental medicine attractive.

Oriental medicine is a refined medical system which has been used for more than three thousand years to diagnose and treat illness, prevent disease and improve well-being. It is effective for physical, psychological and emotional problems. Acupuncture is one of oriental medicine's most important treatment modalities. While science has recently determined that human beings are complex bioelectric systems, this understanding has been the foundation of acupuncture practice for thousands of years.

Energy circulates throughout the body along defined pathways. Points on the skin along these pathways are energetically connected to specific organs, body structures and functional systems. If this energy circulation is disrupted, optimal function is affective, resulting in pain or illness. Acupuncture points are stimulated to balance the circulation of energy, which in turn influence the health of the entire being.

Acupuncture needles are quite thin -- about the size of a hair. They are solid and nothing is injected through them. Over the centuries, needle insertion techniques have been refined, enabling the skilled physician to place a needle with little or no sensation. During treatment various sensations, such as warmth or pleasure may be felt, but these sensations should not be painful.

In some cases it is not necessary to use needles at all. For example, when treating young children, infants, or sensitive adults, there are other effective techniques. If you have a real fear of needles, discuss it with your doctor.

Treatment with acupuncture is the most commonly used technique in oriental medicine. An equally important, but lesser known modality is Chinese herbal medicine. This highly evolved science differs from western herbology. Chinese herbs are almost always prescribed in combination, giving the formula a synergistic effect far greater than the sum of its parts. And most formulas are hundreds of years old, with proven clinical effectiveness.

While some disorders are effectively treated with acupuncture, others may respond better to herbal medicine. Often a combination of the two will be appropriate.

Your doctor may use other techniques as well. Moxabustion is an effective form of heat therapy. A variety of manual therapy techniques, such as massage and manipulation are often utilized. And dietary modifications are often an integral part of oriental healing regiments.

Although the roots of oriental medicine are thousands of years old, it is a living, evolving system of health care. Many doctors of oriental medicines employ complimentary medicines, such as homeopathy, modern nutritional supplements, contemporary therapeutic exercises, or any number of appropriate techniques to ensure your continual health. A DOM may also utilize a number of diagnostic tests or procedures developed by conventional medical science.

When you visit your doctor of oriental medicine, she or he may suggest appropriate changes in your diet or lifestyle, since these contribute to well being. The role you play in your healing is often an active one.

This implies a partnership between patient and physician, and brings up important considerations. Individual styles and treatment modalities vary widely from doctor to doctor. When choosing a doctor, look for someone you feel comfortable with, who inspires confidence and who respects you and your needs.

The effectiveness of acupuncture is well documented and is indorsed as a system of primary health care by the World Health Organization. People from all walks of life -- athletes, taxi drivers, diplomats, moms, dads, children, grandparents -- all professionals, all ages benefit greatly: throughout its long history, oriental medicine has established itself as a comprehensive system of health care that works.

Below is a small sample of conditions for which oriental medicine is appropriate:

• Acne
• Insomnia
• Colitis
• Neck pain/stiffness
• Fatigue
• Arthritis/joint problems
• Diabetes
• Premenstrual symptoms
• Ear aches
• Immune System Deficiency
• Dizziness
• Paralysis/numbness
• Infertility
• Sexual dysfunction
• Hypertension
• Visual problems
• Drug addiction
• Stress/tension
• Heart problems
• Shoulder pains
• Childhood illness
• Skin problems
• Cough/Bronchitis
• Palpitations
• Headaches/migraines
• Sore throat
• Health maintenance
• Smoking
• Gynecological disorders
• Hepatitis
• Bladder/kidney problems
• Tendonitis
• Constipation/diarrhea
• Toothaches
• Anxiety/depression
• Colds/Flu
• Back pain
• Knee pain
• Sciatica
• Herpes
• Ulcers
• Stroke
• Pain

While regulation of oriental medicine varies from state to state, New Mexico's residents enjoy an outstanding combination of benefits and protection by law. The acupuncture and oriental medicine practice act provides both a broad scope of practice and stringent guidelines for licensing. Upon completion of a four year educational program, candidates for licensing must demonstrate competence by passing written and practical state board examinations.

Only a doctor of oriental medicine is qualified and licensed to practice acupuncture.

In order to assure your complete confidence, and comply with FDA regulations, DOMs use pre-sterilized, disposable needles. Many health insurance policies, HMOs, workers compensations, and auto-accident insurance cover oriental medicine. Your DOMs office can assist you in determining your coverage.