Wednesday, March 28, 2001

Chiropractic clinic offers acupuncture

Dr. Linda Katz, a local chiropractor, has partnered with Dr. Jim Lingle, M.D., to offer a blend of modern scientific medical care, chiropractic, and acupuncture, an ancient but widely practiced healing art.

Acupuncture, whether in addition to or as an alternative to Western medical treatment, has been chosen by millions of patients in the United States in recent years. Thousands of physicians have added the necessary training and credentials relating to acupuncture to the tools already available to them for treating patients.

The Centers for Disease Control, World Health Organization and National Institutes of Health, among many others, have issued findings in support of the value of acupuncture in the treatment of many common, chronic and special conditions. Dr. Lingle, a Duke University-trained physician with 17 years of practice, sees the value of acupuncture as an adjunct to evidentiary medicine.

According to Dr. Lingle, Western-style medical practice offers a sound, scientific foundation for treating symptoms, disease and pain. Acupuncture, which is an ancient Chinese form of medicine, takes into account the "soundness of the whole system" the physician targets specific "points" on the body which help to regulate health and balance. By inserting thin needles just beneath the surface of the skin at these points, the body's own healing abilities are stimulated and balance is restored.

In the midst of all the revolutionary changes in health care over the last few years, the blending of respected medical practices from around the world with Western-style medicine is gaining the recognition and respect of some of the most prestigious medical schools and research organizations. The age-old saying, "There's more than one way to skin a cat," is sinking in among the medical community.

Acupuncture is considered by many a powerful tool in the doctor's arsenal of treatment options, regarded as both an ancient art and a modern miracle. It has been used with skill and success for almost six thousand years and is now sweeping America's medical community as it wins recognition from dedicated physicians and appreciative patients.

Dr. Lingle is available every Monday at Dr. Katz' clinic in Fayetteville. He maintains a busy Buckhead practice the rest of the week.