Acupuncture is a medical therapy developed over 2000 years ago in China. Acupuncture stimulates specific points beneath the skin by the insertion of acupuncture needles. This process restores the balance of the body’s energy, also known as “Qi” (pronounced chi). Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Tai Chi, Qi Gong and Moxibustion are some of the essential elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and are made from silver alloy, typically stainless steel. You may feel little or no discomfort at all as the needles are inserted. Generally, the process is painless. You may feel different sensations including slight soreness, numbness, warmth, or pressure. These energetic sensations are different from pain. People often comment that the feeling is unfamiliar but pleasant and comforting.

Acupuncture therapy has been used for thousands of years in China. Acupuncture is the treatment of choice for one-fourth of the world’s population! The needles are FDA approved, individually packaged, pre-sterilized and are disposed after a single use.

Many conditions may be treated. General pain relief and control for arthritis, cervical spondylopathy, knee pain, hand and foot pain, sciatica, shoulder pain, tennis elbow, lower back and neck pain, tendonitis, etc. Other conditions include circulatory problems with high or low blood pressure, cold hands, and foot problems. Some nervous system imbalances can also be treated such as anxiety, nervousness, sleeplessness, depression, asthma, allergies and sinus problems; digestive disorders like Crohn’s Disease, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, diarrhea, and constipation. Other common ailments treated include headaches and migraines; treatments to help stop smoking, and many more.

In traditional Chinese Medicine, there exists a meridian system through the human body. In this system, invisible passageways for energy are called meridians. There are certain points on the body (more than 360) that connect with certain organs and bodily functions. Point Groups on the body that apply to a specific organ or function are found along the same meridian. In a healthy, normal functioning body, the energy in these meridians flows freely resulting in a balanced system. When the flow of energy is interrupted due to stress or injury, this energy is reduced, throwing your “Qi” off balance. By performing acupuncture, using the points associated with the particular meridian involved, this Qi or balance is restored.

Acupuncture needles are FDA approved. These needles are pre-sterilized and individually wrapped. After the needles are used, they are disposed.

Since every person is unique in their own condition, the number of treatments will vary. The nature, severity, and history of each patient’s problem, as well as the individual himself or herself, are all factors that are involved in how many treatments will be necessary.

The acupuncturist may use several techniques such as moxibustion, cupping, electric stimulation, and point stimulation to help with the patient’s treatment.

Acupuncture will not conflict with any of your medications. Acupuncture is used to complement and supplement your physician’s treatments, NOT TO REPLACE THEM. You should discuss this issue with your physician and acupuncturist.