What is Acupuncture?
​​
Acupuncture originated in China around 3000 years ago. Based on the theories of Chinese Medicine, the free flow of Qi [energy] throughout the body's meridian systems is essential in maintaining health and well-being. Any blockage to Qi production and free flow can cause disease [pain, swelling, fatigue, weakness, etc.].
​
Acupuncture treatment involves inserting very thin needles into energy collection points along the meridians to re-balance the flow of energy and assist the body's natural ability to heal and return to homeostasis. Application of heat or electrical stimulation may also be used.
Acupuncture has been proven to:
-
Treat illnesses and injuries
-
Prevent illness and the recurrence of illness
-
Maintain and improve overall health
​
​
A list of some of the conditions and issues for which acupuncture is commonly effective:
-
Acute injuries [sprains, strains, bruising]
-
Addiction
-
Allergies
-
Anxiety
-
Arthritic conditions/joint pain
-
Asthma
-
Back pain
-
Breathing problems
-
Bronchitis
-
Burns
-
Common cold
-
Cosmetic acupuncture
-
Chronic fatigue syndrome
-
Constipation
-
Depression
-
Diarrhea
-
Digestive disorders
-
Fibromyalgia
-
Gynecological issues
-
High blood pressure/hypertension
-
Indigestion
-
Infertility
-
Migraine/headache
-
Muscle aches/myalgias
-
Nausea
-
Neck pain
-
Neuropathic pain/neuropathy
-
Orthopedic issues
-
Pain management
-
PMS
-
Post-operative healing
-
Infertility
-
Sexual dysfunction
-
Sinusitis
-
Skin problems
-
Sleep disorders/Insomnia
-
Smoking cessation
-
Spinal problems
-
Sports medicine
-
Stress
-
Urologic issues
-
Weight loss
-
Wellness
-
Vertigo
According to the National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization’s official report, “Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials,” acupuncture has been proven to effectively treat many other conditions. View the full list here: https://medicalacupuncture.org/for-patients/health-conditions/
Does Acupuncture hurt?
Most people find acupuncture to be extremely relaxing and feel minimal or no discomfort with needle insertion. Once the needles are in place, there may be sensations of heaviness, tingling, or warmth due to the movement of energy within the body. By the end of a treatment, most people find themselves deeply relaxed and many even sleep!
Acupuncture needles are unlike the hypodermic needles you are accustomed to seeing at your doctor's office. They are as thin as a human hair, solid, rounded at the end, and easily enter the skin without cutting the tissue.
How does Acupuncture work?
In modern scientific terms, needling acupuncture points stimulates your nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals change how you experience pain and/or trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which regulate your body's own natural healing abilities and promote well-being.​
Do I have to believe in Acupuncture for it to work?
No. In fact, acupuncture is used successfully for animals including cats, dogs, and horses. Although animals do not understand or believe in the process, acupuncture still gives them relief from a wide variety of ailments. Your positive attitude toward wellness is always beneficial and may reinforce the positive effects of acupuncture. Of course, because of the mind-body connection, a negative attitude may certainly hinder the effects of acupuncture or any other treatment. A neutral attitude, i.e. "I don't know if I really believe in this" will not block your treatment results.
Are there any risks/side-effects from Acupuncture?​
​
​Acupuncture is safe when performed by a trained physician. Side effects are uncommon, but can include dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Serious complications are very rare in the hands of a skilled physician. The risk of serious events occurring in association with acupuncture is very low, much below that of many common medical treatments. Because sterile disposable solid needles are used, there is no risk of HIV or hepatitis transmission.