What is Acupuncture?

Traditional Eastern medicine explains that health is the result of a harmonious balance of the complementary extremes of "yin" and "yang" of the life force known as "qi," pronounced "chi." Illness is said to be the consequence of an imbalance of the forces. Qi is said to flow through meridians, or pathways, in the human body. These meridians and energy flows are accessible through 350 acupuncture points in the body. Inserting needles into these points with appropriate combinations is said to bring the energy flow back into proper balance.

The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.

Any side effects?

Side effects are usually mild. Some people notice temporary soreness, minor bruising, or light bleeding where a needle was placed, or feel tired or lightheaded after a session. Occasionally the original symptoms feel stronger for a day or two before they settle. If anything worries you after a treatment, please call us, and seek medical care right away for any severe or unusual symptoms.

Does it hurt?

People experience acupuncture needling differently. Most patients feel only minimal pain as the needles are inserted; some feel no pain at all. Once the needles are in place, there is no pain felt. Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid and are made from stainless steel. The point is smooth (not hollow with cutting edges like a hypodermic needle) and insertion through the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling. The risk of bruising and skin irritation is less than when using a hollow needle.

Does Acupuncture work?

Research suggests acupuncture may help with conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, knee osteoarthritis, and tension and migraine headaches, and it is used more and more in the United States alongside conventional medical care. Results vary from person to person, which is why we reassess your progress regularly.