ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture
is a very traditional healing method in China that has been used for
more than 4000 years ago. Today, it is used throughout the world to
treat hundreds of different ailments. Acupuncture involves the insertion
of hair-thin sterile needles at specific points on the body to promote
or direct the flows of energy & fluids (Qi & blood) in our body. 
Our
bodies are nourished by these flows, such as a garden is irrigated by
canals or trenches. In a garden, irrigating flows are regulated by gates
or valves. In our bodies, these gates are the acupuncture points (known
as meridian points), and by manipulating them an acupuncture doctor
helps to control the flow of energy.
Acupuncture
is especially beneficial in stimulating the nervous system (because
needling can effect peripheral nerves, which reaches the central nervous
system). Some studies even reveal that acupuncture makes endorphins
which are morphine-like substances made naturally in your body. Some
believe that is the mechanism behind the effectiveness of acupuncture.
What to Expect
Acupuncture needles are very thin and not hollow like injection needles. They all should be pre-sterilized, individually packed, disposable and used once and discarded. Most people receive acupuncture treatment lying, down, although a seated position is sometimes used. Your acupuncturist will guide you and help you relax and receive the most benefit from treatment.
The needles are as thin as human hair and are tapped in through a tiny tube. The needles are left in body for 25 to 30 minutes. Most patients go into a state of deep relaxation and some even fall asleep due to the endorphins which are released during the treatment.
Acupuncture needles are very thin and not hollow like injection needles. They all should be pre-sterilized, individually packed, disposable and used once and discarded. Most people receive acupuncture treatment lying, down, although a seated position is sometimes used. Your acupuncturist will guide you and help you relax and receive the most benefit from treatment.
The needles are as thin as human hair and are tapped in through a tiny tube. The needles are left in body for 25 to 30 minutes.
Most patients go into a state of deep relaxation and some even fall asleep due to the endorphins which are released during the treatment. In areas where the muscles are especially tight, electrodes may be attached to the needles. The electrical current provides a steady vibration to the tight muscles which feels like a gentle massage.
Depending on each person's individual needs, a treatment session can involve anywhere from one to several of the specialty techniques, and lasts up to one and a half hours.
Patients often benefit most from a series of weekly treatments, and positive results are often experienced anywhere from the first to the sixth session. When conditions resolve and patients feel stabilized in their new sense of wellness and health, monthly or seasonal visits are recommended for tune ups and to maintain the healing trajectory.
When working with chronic, severe or even life threatening conditions, a more intensive treatment approach is applied, and as always, the patient is encouraged to communicate frequently and openly with their Western medical provider.
Whatever the case may be, even patients with no specific medical condition can gain profound benefits in all areas of their lives, as increasing energy, boosting immune function, reducing stress, and providing a radiant sense of well being are gifts that will never be wasted.