​Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes heel pain and can be quite debilitating. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed or irritated. Among the various treatments for this condition, many people are turning to acupuncture and Chinese Medicine as a safe and effective way to manage their symptoms.

Acupuncture is an ancient healing technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a holistic system of healing that has been used for thousands of years. TCM practitioners believe that illness and pain arise from imbalances in the body's vital energy, or qi, and that acupuncture can restore this balance and promote healing.

In TCM, plantar fasciitis is often seen as a problem with the kidney meridian, which runs from the bottom of the foot up to the lower back. Acupuncture can help stimulate this meridian and promote better circulation and healing in the affected area.

One of the key benefits of acupuncture is that it is a non-invasive treatment that carries very little risk of side effects. This makes it an ideal choice for people who may not be able to tolerate other treatments, such as pain medications or surgery. Acupuncture can also be used in conjunction with other therapies, such as physical therapy or massage, to provide a more comprehensive approach to healing.

A literature review of clinical trials published by the Singapore Medical Journal found that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis, with patients who received treatment had significantly reduced pain and improved mobility. In addition to acupuncture, TCM practitioners may also use other techniques, such as foot baths or herbal medicine, to help manage plantar fasciitis, reduce inflammation and promote healing from the inside out.

It's important to note that acupuncture and TCM are not quick fixes for plantar fasciitis. It may take several sessions to see significant improvement, and regular maintenance treatments may be necessary to keep symptoms under control. However, for those who are willing to commit to the process, acupuncture and TCM can provide a safe and effective way to manage this painful condition.

In conclusion, acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can be a safe and effective way to manage the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. By restoring balance to the body's energy systems, acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing. If you are struggling with this condition, consider exploring the benefits of acupuncture and TCM as a complementary therapy to your current treatment plan.

Note: It is important to note that TCM should not be used as a substitute for conventional hypertension medical treatment. Rather, TCM can be used in conjunction with conventional treatment to help manage the condition and improve overall health and well-being.

​High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it usually doesn't have any noticeable symptoms but can lead to serious health complications such as stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can offer a natural and effective complement to managing high blood pressure.

According to Chinese Medicine, hypertension is often caused by a disturbance in the balance of energy, or Qi, in the body. Qi flows through channels or meridians in the body, and when these meridians become blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to high blood pressure. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body along these meridians to restore balance and promote the free flow of Qi.

One of the most commonly used acupuncture points for hypertension is called "Liver 3" or "Tai Chong" in Chinese. This point is located on the foot, between the big toe and second toe. Stimulating this point has been shown to lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and improving blood flow.

In addition to acupuncture and western medicine, Chinese Medicine offers a variety of other natural therapies to help manage high blood pressure. Herbal medicine is often used to help regulate blood pressure by supporting the health of the heart and blood vessels. Some commonly used herbs for hypertension include hawthorn berry, chrysanthemum flower, and ginseng.

Diet and lifestyle modifications are also important components of managing high blood pressure according to Chinese Medicine. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while avoiding processed foods and excessive salt can help support healthy blood pressure levels. Regular exercise, stress reduction techniques such as meditation or tai chi, and getting adequate sleep are also important for maintaining good cardiovascular health.

Several studies have shown the effectiveness of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in managing high blood pressure. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials found that a combination of western and herbal medication was associated with a better reduction in blood pressure then with western medication alone.

In conclusion, hypertension is a common and serious health condition that can be effectively managed with acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. By restoring the balance of Qi in the body, acupuncture and herbal medicine can help regulate blood pressure, support cardiovascular health, and improve overall well-being. Along with diet and lifestyle modifications, acupuncture and Chinese Medicine offer a safe and natural approach to managing high blood pressure that can help reduce the risk of serious health complications.

​Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine are ancient practices that have been used for thousands of years to help manage a wide range of health conditions, including high cholesterol. In Chinese Medicine, high cholesterol is seen as a sign of an underlying imbalance in the body, and acupuncture and herbal medicine are used to help restore balance and promote overall health.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is produced by the liver and is necessary for the normal functioning of the body. However, when there is too much cholesterol in the blood, it can build up in the arteries, leading to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened, making it more difficult for blood to flow through.

High cholesterol is often associated with lifestyle factors such as a diet high in saturated fats, lack of exercise, and smoking. Genetics can also play a role in cholesterol levels. High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can help manage high cholesterol by addressing the underlying imbalances in the body that contribute to conditions contributing to high cholesterol, such as obesity. In Chinese Medicine, high cholesterol is typically seen as a sign of Liver Qi Stagnation, a condition in which the liver is not functioning properly, and energy is not flowing smoothly through the body. Acupuncture can help regulate the flow of energy in the body and promote the proper functioning of the liver. It can also can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can also contribute to high cholesterol levels.

Herbal medicine is another important component of Chinese Medicine and can be used to support the treatment of high cholesterol. Some herbs that may be used include Gynostemma, which has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, and Hawthorn, which can help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.

Diet and lifestyle changes are also an important part of managing high cholesterol. Chinese Medicine practitioners may recommend dietary changes, such as reducing intake of saturated fats and increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables. Exercise, stress reduction techniques, and other lifestyle modifications may also be recommended.

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can be a valuable tool in managing high cholesterol levels. By addressing the underlying imbalances in the body that contribute to the condition, acupuncture and herbal medicine can help promote overall health and reduce the risk of heart disease and other health problems associated with high cholesterol. It is important to work with a qualified practitioner who can provide individualized treatment recommendations based on your unique needs and health history.

Footnote: It is important to note that TCM should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Rather, TCM can be used in conjunction with conventional treatment to help manage the condition and improve overall health and well-being.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the muscles, joints, and other soft tissues. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is believed to be related to abnormal levels of certain chemicals in the brain that regulate pain perception. Fibromyalgia affects 2% of the Singapore population, and it is more common in women than men. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help manage its symptoms.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. In traditional Chinese medicine, fibromyalgia is believed to be caused by an imbalance of energy or "qi" in the body. Acupuncture can help to restore the balance of qi by stimulating specific points on the body that are associated with the condition.

Several studies have shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for fibromyalgia. A review of 12 randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture was associated with significant improvements in pain, fatigue, and sleep quality in patients with fibromyalgia. Acupuncture is thought to work by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. It may also help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the affected areas. Additionally, acupuncture can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are often associated with fibromyalgia.

Chinese herbal medicine is another component of traditional Chinese medicine that can be helpful in managing fibromyalgia. Chinese herbal medicine uses a combination of natural substances, including herbs, minerals, and animal products, to treat a wide range of health conditions. Several herbs have been found to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation in fibromyalgia patients.

One herb that has been studied extensively for its use in fibromyalgia is curcumin, which is the active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may help to reduce pain and stiffness in fibromyalgia patients. Other herbs that have been studied for their use in fibromyalgia include ginger, ginseng, and chamomile.

In addition to acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, other traditional Chinese medical practices can be helpful in managing fibromyalgia. These include tai chi and qigong, which are gentle forms of exercise that focus on breathing and movement. Both tai chi and qigong have been found to be effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life in fibromyalgia patients.

Dietary changes can also be helpful in managing fibromyalgia. In traditional Chinese medicine, certain foods are believed to be "cooling" or "warming" and can affect the balance of qi in the body. Fibromyalgia patients may benefit from eating more warming foods, such as ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric, and avoiding cooling foods, such as dairy products and raw fruits and vegetables.

In addition to dietary changes, lifestyle modifications can also be helpful in managing fibromyalgia. Stress reduction techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are often associated with fibromyalgia. Regular exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help to improve muscle strength and reduce pain and stiffness.

In conclusion, acupuncture and Chinese medicine can be effective in managing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Acupuncture can help to restore the balance of qi in the body and stimulate the body's natural healing processes. Chinese herbal medicine can help to reduce pain and inflammation in fibromyalgia patients. Other traditional Chinese medical practices, such as tai chi and qigong, can improve muscle strength and reduce pain and stiffness. Dietary changes and lifestyle modifications, such as stress reduction techniques and regular exercise, can also be helpful in managing fibromyalgia.

In conclusion, fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that can be difficult to manage, but acupuncture and Chinese medicine offer a safe and effective complementary approach to treatment. By restoring the balance of qi in the body and reducing pain and inflammation, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can help to improve quality of life for fibromyalgia patients. Additionally, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and other traditional Chinese medical practices can be helpful in managing symptoms and improving overall health and well-being.

​Footnote: It is important to note that TCM should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Rather, TCM can be used in conjunction with conventional treatment to help manage the condition and improve overall health and well-being.

​Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex and debilitating disorder that is characterized by persistent and unexplained fatigue that is not improved by rest. CFS affects millions of people around the world, and it can be challenging to manage. Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offer a holistic approach to managing CFS, addressing not just the physical symptoms but also the underlying imbalances that may be contributing to the condition.

In TCM, CFS is believed to be caused by a deficiency of vital energy or qi in the body, as well as a stagnation of blood flow. The goal of acupuncture and TCM treatment for CFS is to address these imbalances and restore the body's natural balance.

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This stimulates the body's natural healing processes and can help to alleviate a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, pain, and depression.

Studies have shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for CFS. A systematic review found that acupuncture and moxibustion improved fatigue and quality of life in patients with CFS compared to control groups that did not receive acupuncture treatment.

In addition to acupuncture, TCM practitioners may recommend herbal remedies, dietary changes, and other lifestyle modifications to manage CFS. Herbal remedies may include formulas that help to tonify qi, improve blood flow, and support the immune system. Dietary changes may include recommendations to eat foods that are easy to digest and avoid foods that may contribute to inflammation and fatigue.

Lifestyle modifications may include recommendations to incorporate gentle exercise and stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and tai chi into one's daily routine. These practices can help to improve energy levels, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. One common TCM approach to treating CFS is to tonify the spleen and kidney organs, which are believed to play a key role in energy production and circulation. This may involve the use of specific acupuncture points, herbal formulas, and dietary recommendations that support the spleen and kidney systems.

In addition to treating the physical symptoms of CFS, TCM can also address the emotional and psychological aspects of the condition. CFS is often associated with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, and TCM offers a holistic approach to managing these symptoms. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and promote a sense of well-being.

In conclusion, acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine offer a holistic and effective approach to managing chronic fatigue syndrome. By addressing the underlying imbalances in the body's energy systems and promoting overall health and well-being, acupuncture and TCM can help to reduce fatigue, alleviate pain, improve mood, and restore vitality. If you are struggling with CFS, consider consulting with a licensed acupuncturist and TCM practitioner to explore your options for natural and effective treatment.

​Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have been used to treat asthma for thousands of years. These alternative therapies aim to restore balance and harmony to the body, which is believed to be essential for optimal health. Acupuncture and TCM can be used alone or in conjunction with Western medicine to manage asthma symptoms, improve lung function, and prevent attacks.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the airways in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. Asthma attacks can be triggered by various factors, such as allergens, exercise, cold air, and stress.

According to TCM, asthma is caused by an imbalance in the body's energy or "qi" (pronounced "chee"). This imbalance can be due to external factors, such as allergens or pollution, or internal factors, such as emotions or diet. In TCM, asthma is classified as a "wind-cold" or "wind-heat" disorder, depending on the underlying cause.

Acupuncture is a key component of TCM and involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. These points are believed to correspond to energy channels or "meridians" in the body. By stimulating these points, acupuncture can help regulate the flow of qi and restore balance to the body.

Research suggests that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for asthma. A systematic review of multiple studies found that acupuncture was more effective than placebo at improving lung function and reducing asthma symptoms. 

In addition to acupuncture, other TCM therapies can also be used to manage asthma. Herbal medicine is a common therapy used in TCM and involves the use of natural herbs to treat various conditions. Herbal formulas for asthma typically contain ingredients that help regulate the flow of qi, reduce inflammation, and dilate the airways.

Cupping is another TCM therapy that can be used to manage asthma. Cupping involves the use of suction cups that are placed on the skin to create a vacuum. This therapy can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for asthma patients.

Dietary therapy is also an important aspect of TCM and can be used to manage asthma. In TCM, certain foods are believed to be beneficial for the lungs, such as pears, apples, and honey. On the other hand, foods that are believed to exacerbate asthma symptoms, such as dairy, wheat, and sugar, should be avoided.

Mind-body practices, such as tai chi and qigong, can also be beneficial for asthma patients. These practices involve slow, controlled movements and deep breathing exercises, which can help improve lung function and reduce stress.

In conclusion, acupuncture and TCM can be effective therapies for managing asthma. These alternative therapies aim to restore balance and harmony to the body, which can help regulate the flow of qi, reduce inflammation, and improve lung function. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, dietary therapy, and mind-body practices can all be used to manage asthma symptoms and prevent attacks

Footnote: It is important to note that TCM should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Rather, TCM can be used in conjunction with conventional treatment to help manage the condition and improve overall health and well-being.

Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can be effective therapies for managing sprains and aches. A sprain is a type of injury that occurs when the ligaments connecting two bones are stretched or torn, while aches can refer to a general feeling of discomfort or pain in the muscles or joints.

Acupuncture is a key therapy used in TCM, and it involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi, or energy. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, acupuncture can help improve blood flow and oxygenation to the affected area, which can help reduce pain and inflammation.

A systematic review of clinical trials found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving mobility in patients with ankle sprains. The study showed that patients who received acupuncture had a significant reduction in pain levels and improved range of motion compared to those who received only conventional treatment.

In addition to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can also be an effective therapy for managing sprains and aches. Chinese herbal formulas can be tailored to the individual patient, based on their specific symptoms and underlying causes of their injury.

In addition to acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, TCM practitioners may also recommend other therapies to help manage sprains and aches. This may include heat therapy and cupping, which involves placing cups on the skin to create suction and improve blood flow, and moxibustion, which involves burning a small amount of dried herb on or near the skin to stimulate the flow of Qi.

TCM practitioners may also recommend other lifestyle modifications to help manage sprains and aches. This may include dietary changes to improve nutrition, exercise programs to improve physical function, and stress reduction techniques to improve overall well-being.

In conclusion, acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine can be effective therapies for managing sprains and aches. Acupuncture can help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation, while Chinese herbal medicine can help balance the body's energy and promote healing. With proper care and guidance from a licensed and experienced TCM practitioner, patients with sprains and aches can achieve significant relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Footnote: It is important to note that TCM should not be used as a replacement for conventional medical care for serious injuries, such as fractures or severe sprains. However, TCM can be used in conjunction with conventional medical care to help manage symptoms and promote healing.

Sciatic pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can be effective in managing sciatic pain by addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to the condition.

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. These points are believed to be connected by meridians, or pathways, through which energy, or qi, flows. By stimulating these points, acupuncture is thought to balance the flow of qi and promote healing.

Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in managing sciatic pain by reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and releasing natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. Studies have shown that acupuncture can help reduce pain and improve function in patients with sciatica.

In addition to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can also be used to manage sciatic pain. Chinese herbs are used in combination to create customized formulas tailored to each patient's individual needs. These formulas are designed to address the underlying imbalances that contribute to sciatic pain, as well as to alleviate symptoms. One of the most commonly used herbs in the treatment of sciatic pain is du huo, also known as angelica root. This herb has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve pain and stiffness in the lower back and legs.

In addition to acupuncture and herbal medicine, TCM practitioners may also recommend dietary therapy to manage sciatic pain. Foods that are high in sugar and processed carbohydrates should be avoided, as they can exacerbate sciatic pain.

Finally, TCM practitioners may also recommend lifestyle modifications and mind-body practices to manage sciatic pain. Exercises such as tai chi and qigong can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and improve overall mobility. TCM practitioners may also recommend other lifestyle modifications, such as improving posture and reducing sedentary behavior.

In conclusion, acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can offer a holistic approach to managing sciatic pain and its associated symptoms. Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and mind-body practices can all be tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. By working with qualified TCM practitioners, sciatic pain patients can receive safe and effective treatment that is tailored to their individual needs. 

​Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, leading to a range of motor symptoms, including tremors, rigidity, and difficulty with movement. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can be effective in managing Parkinson's disease by addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to the condition.

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. These points are believed to be connected by meridians, or pathways, through which energy, or qi, flows. By stimulating these points, acupuncture is thought to balance the flow of qi and promote healing.

Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in managing Parkinson's disease by regulating the levels of dopamine in the brain. Studies have shown that acupuncture can help increase dopamine production and improve dopamine transmission in the brain. Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation, which is a common complication of Parkinson's disease.

In addition to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can also be used to manage Parkinson's disease. Chinese herbs are used in combination to create customized formulas tailored to each patient's individual needs. These formulas are designed to address the underlying imbalances that contribute to Parkinson's disease, as well as to alleviate symptoms. One of the most commonly used herbs in the treatment of Parkinson's disease is Gastrodia elata. This herb has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain and reduce inflammation, which can help improve Parkinson's disease symptoms.

In addition to acupuncture and herbal medicine, dietary therapy is another important aspect of TCM treatment for Parkinson's disease. In TCM, Parkinson's disease is considered to be a condition of deficiency in the liver and kidney channels. To address this deficiency, TCM practitioners recommend a diet that is high in foods that nourish the liver and kidney, such as dark leafy greens, sea vegetables, and bone broth. Foods that are high in sugar and processed carbohydrates should be avoided, as they can exacerbate Parkinson's disease symptoms.

Finally, mind-body practices such as qigong and tai chi can also be effective in managing Parkinson's disease. These practices involve slow, gentle movements and deep breathing exercises that help to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Studies have shown that qigong and tai chi can improve balance and gait, reduce rigidity, and improve overall quality of life in Parkinson's disease patients.

In conclusion, acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can offer a holistic approach to managing Parkinson's disease and its associated symptoms. Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and mind-body practices can all be tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. By working with qualified TCM practitioners, Parkinson's disease patients can receive safe and effective treatment that is tailored to their individual needs.

​Footnote: It is important to note that TCM should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Rather, TCM can be used in conjunction with conventional treatment to help manage the condition and improve overall health and well-being.

​​Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function over time. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including fatigue, nausea, high blood pressure, and fluid retention. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine have been shown to be effective in managing CKD and its associated symptoms.

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. These points are believed to be connected by meridians, or pathways, through which energy, or qi, flows. By stimulating these points, acupuncture is thought to balance the flow of qi and promote healing.

Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating a range of CKD symptoms. For example, studies have shown that acupuncture can help reduce fatigue in CKD patients, with significant improvements in energy levels compared to control groups that did not receive acupuncture. Acupuncture has also been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving sleep in CKD patients.

In addition to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can also be used to manage CKD. Chinese herbs are used in combination to create customized formulas tailored to each patient's individual needs. These formulas are designed to address the underlying imbalances that contribute to CKD, as well as to alleviate symptoms.

One of the most commonly used herbs in the treatment of CKD is Rehmannia glutinosa. Rehmannia, in conjunction with other complementary herbs, has been shown to be effective in improving kidney function and reducing inflammation in the kidneys. Another herb commonly used in the treatment of CKD is Astragalus membranaceus, which has been shown to improve kidney function and reduce proteinuria, or the presence of excess protein in the urine.

In addition to acupuncture and herbal medicine, dietary therapy is another important aspect of TCM treatment for CKD. In TCM, the kidneys are considered to be the foundation of the body's yin and yang energies. Yin represents the body's cooling and nourishing aspects, while yang represents its warming and active aspects. CKD is considered to be a yin deficiency condition, which means that the body is lacking in its cooling and nourishing energies.

To address this deficiency, TCM practitioners recommend a diet that is rich in cooling and nourishing foods. This includes foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. In addition, foods that are high in salt, sugar, and animal protein should be avoided, as they can exacerbate CKD symptoms.

In summary, acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can offer a holistic approach to managing CKD and its associated symptoms. Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and mind-body practices can all be tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. By working with qualified TCM practitioners, CKD patients can receive safe and effective treatment that is tailored to their individual needs.