Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. It involves the insertion of very thin, sterile single-use needles at precise points along the body to promote natural healing and restore balance throughout.

How does acupuncture work?

According to traditional Chinese theory, disease and pain represent an imbalance within the human body. This imbalance results in a blockage in the flow of qi or vital energy which flow through energy channels called meridians. It is this blockage or obstruction that lead to dysfunction. Acupuncture needles are used to unblock any obstructions along the meridian, rebalance the regular flow of qi, and restore optimum health.

Modern medical research has demonstrated that the needling of acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to effect nerve impulse transmission and can trigger the release of important chemicals and hormones that effect the body's function such as endorphins and immune system cells. Ongoing clinical studies continue to explore the efficacy and benefit of acupuncture with regard to numerous ailments and conditions.

What does acupuncture feel like?

Generally, the effects of acupuncture are gentle and mild. Once the needle is inserted, the patient will often feel sensations ranging from tingling to a heaviness or pressure, distension to mild throbbing, or a sensation of energy travelling up or down the affected meridian. This is known as 'Grasping the Qi'. With the use of very thin, filiform needles, some patients feel only minimal and often no discomfort upon insertion. Once the needles are in place, patients will often experience a feeling of deep relaxation.

What can acupuncture treat?

The World Health Organization estimates that more people worldwide have been treated with acupuncture in the last 2000 years than with all other health modalities combined. Dating back to at least the Civil War, acupuncture in the U.S. continues to gain in popularity and its use over the last 20 years has increased significantly. Some of the commonly treated conditions include:

• Respiratory Disorders: sinusitis, sore throat, asthma, bronchitis, rhinitis, common cold
• Digestive Disorders: gastritis, constipation, diarrhea, hyperacidity, chronic duodenal ulcer, IBS, nausea, indigestion
• Neurologic Disorders: headache, migraine, facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia, Meniere's syndrome, peripheral neuropathy
• Orthopedic Disorders: low back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, sciatica, osteoarthritis, neck pain, tendinitis
• Psycho/Emotional Disorders: stress, anxiety, addiction disorders, sleep disorders, depression, smoking cessation
• Reproductive and Urogenital Disorders: symptoms related to PMS, menopause, menstrual irregularities, dificult urination, incontinence

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