How does Acupuncture work?

Acupuncture involves inserting very thin, sterile, stainless-steel needles through the skin at strategic points on the body to balance the flow of energy or life force — known as Qi (chi) — believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in the body. According to East Asian Medicine, when the Qi is flowing freely, the body is healthy. When Qi is stuck there is pain and disease. Western scientists theorize that acupuncture stimulates the release of several endogenous opioids and activates specific receptors that inhibit the transmission of painful stimuli. See full explanation here.             

Is Acupuncture Safe?

In the hands of a licensed practitioner acupuncture is a very safe, pain-free, effective treatment for many acute and chronic conditions that has been used for thousands of years.

Is Acupuncture Painful?

Acupuncture treatments are not painful. Acupuncture is performed with hair-thin needles that do not resemble the pain felt from a hypodermic needle. Patients often fall asleep and are in deep relaxation on the table.

Are there any side effects?

One of the great advantages of acupuncture is that it is very safe. Other than an occasional bruise, there are no side effects.

Where do the needles go?

Needles are placed at specific acupuncture points on the body. Depending on the specific condition the needles commonly are placed at or below the elbows, and at or below the knees. Other common areas are on the back, scalp and ears.

What should I expect for my first treatment?

During the first treatment the practitioner will take a complete health history and establish a complete evaluation of the condition for which you are seeking treatment. The practitioner will feel your pulse, look at your tongue and may palpate specific meridians to look for tender areas. The initial treatment may last between 1 and 1.5 hours, and all subsequent treatments are for 1 hour.

How can I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?

The best way to prepare is to eat a snack or a light meal before treatment so your body has sufficient energy to work with. If possible it is best to wear loose clothing so that your arms and legs are accessible for treatment. After treatment we recommend you drink a glass of water to help stabilize your energy, and to refrain from strenuous exercise for that day.

What are the advantages of acupuncture?

One benefit to acupuncture is that it is a drug-free way to optimize health. With drugs, people often develop a tolerance, or the need for an increased dosage to achieve the same required effect. However, this does not happen with acupuncture. In addition, acupuncture allows the doctor to immediately examine a person’s response to the treatment and adjust it if necessary.