Introduction to Acupuncture
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a type of traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of fine needles into the skin at precise acupuncture points in order to encourage the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning. It is a medical procedure that dates back thousands of years and can be effective in the treatment of a variety of health problems.
What problems can be treated by acupuncture?
Acupuncture can enhance recuperative power and immunity, support physical and emotional health, and improve overall function and well-being. It is suitable for treating the following:
- Pain Management
Back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, joint pain, sciatica, arthritis, sprains, tendinitis, migraines, headaches, facial paralysis, nerve pain, postoperative pain, sports injuries, auto accident injuries, etc. - Allergies
Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective treatment for seasonal allergies as well as other types of allergies. It focuses on the root of the problem in each individual rather than just treating the symptoms, which is the treatment emphasis of Western medicine. - Depression Control
Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety can also be treated through acupuncture and herbal treatments. Acupuncture uses specifically tailored treatments depending on each individual patient’s problems to help restore balance to the body. - Infertility or Pregnancy Issues
Treatment focuses on regulating the menses, balancing hormone levels, and if needed, treating cystic ovaries, uterine fibroids and endometriosis. Once this is achieved, fertility is greatly increased. - Menopause
Acupuncture can help solve several menopausal problems or lessen the severity of its symptoms: hot flashes, night sweats, and many others.
Acupuncture has been used for centuries in China to treat many other problems, so to see how acupuncture can help you today, come in for a quick and free consultation.
How deep do the needles go?
That depends upon the nature of the problem, the location of the points selected, the patient’s size, age, and constitution, and the acupuncturist’s style or school. Usually, needles are inserted from 1/4 to 1 inch in depth.
Does it hurt?
The needles are very small and thin, roughly the width of a strand of hair. If your practitioner has obtained the correct stimulus of the needle, the patient should feel some heaviness, tingling or electric sensation either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridian, or energy pathway. If you experience any discomfort, it is usually mild.
How does acupuncture work?
Modern Western medicine cannot explain how acupuncture works. Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi (Energy) through distinct meridians or pathways that cover the body somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels do. According to ancient theory, acupuncture allows Qi to flow to areas where it is deficient and away from where it is in excess. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores the harmony and balance of the body. (See Traditional Chinese Medicine page for more information)
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends upon the duration, severity and nature of your complaint. You may need only a single treatment for an acute condition. A series of five to fifteen treatments may resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may require treatments over a longer period of time.