Ancient Technique for Modern Ailments
What is acupuncture?
Originating in China about three thousand years ago, this ancient therapy involves inserting very thin sterilized needles into special points on the body that are determined based on your individual health concerns. The stimulation of these points helps to rebalance the flow of “qi” (your internal energy). By rebalancing qi, you can reduce pain and help to regulate organ systems that are not functioning optimally.
How does it work?
Our conventional medical model explains acupuncture’s efficacy as being a result of the needles interrupting neural pathways and encouraging local circulation. This leads to a reduction in pain and inflammation in the body.
What conditions does it treat?
Acupuncture is most commonly known for improving joint and muscular pain and injuries. However, it is also used to treat chronic conditions ranging from digestive disorders to insomnia to menstrual irregularities.
What can I expect during a treatment?
Most people expect needles to be quite painful. With acupuncture, however, the needles are extremely thin. You may feel a slight pinch upon insertion of the needles or nothing at all. Once the needles have been put in place, most people experience a sense of relaxation, and many actually fall asleep during the treatment. After treatment, it is not uncommon for patients to feel a shift in their sense of being. This is often experienced as either a “calm” or an increase in energy.
How often should I come?
Results from acupuncture are usually experienced after 4-10 treatments. Long-term improvements from more chronic conditions generally require more frequent visits. Depending upon the type and severity of the condition, initial treatments are once to twice a week. Based on the patient’s requirements, these may be decreased to a lower frequency.
Eventually, maintenance treatments can be carried out every few weeks to every few months. Patients may also request acupuncture for relaxation and stress reduction.