Acupuncture is the strategic insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body’s surface for the purpose of stimulating healing. It is part of an ancient system of health care developed in China over 3000 years ago. Acupuncture is based on the concept that energy (called chi) flows through the body in certain patterns (meridians). The free flow of these energies ensures good health. Change in the free flow of this energy, such as stagnation, blockages, or imbalances, are believed to lead to pain, congestion and eventually disease conditions in the body.
Acupuncture is a holistic method which promotes its own natural healing and leads to overall improved functioning. The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the body to produce natural steroids and release endorphins. Steroids decrease inflammation, while endorphins inhibit pain. These substances are 50 to 100 times more potent in relieving pain than many prescription drugs, and play an integral part in the elimination of the pain cycle.
Acupuncture needles are metallic and sterile, used once and discarded. Needles are solid and are slightly bigger than the width of human hair. Patients can feel the needle pierce the skin, but there is no pain. The puncture site is usually swabbed with alcohol beforehand. When the needle locates the acupuncture point, there may be a “grabbing” sensation, followed by a relaxed, heavy feeling and overall body warmth. Some patients even fall asleep during treatment. Side effects of acupuncture are rare, but there may be some soreness or light-headedness following treatment.
For Pain
To date, Western medicine has not had a great deal of success in providing alternative means for pain relief. Acupuncture now plays an important role as an alternative solution to the elimination of acute and chronic pain conditions. In 1997, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conducted an extensive review of the scientific evidence for acupuncture. According to the panel, there is clear evidence in support of acupuncture’s efficacy for chronic conditions that benefit from the control of pain and inflammation, enhanced circulation, endocrine and immune function and the reduction of stress. The panel found a number of conditions for which acupuncture is extremely useful as an adjunct or alternative therapy, particularly if included in a “comprehensive management program”. These conditions include: carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, headache, low back pain, menstrual cramps, myofascial pain, osteoarthritis, tennis elbow and more…
More recent studies and reviews have supported the use of acupuncture for migraine and tension headaches (Melchart, 2001), chronic neck pain (Irnich, 2001), low back pain, neck pain and soft-tissue injuries of the peripheral joints (Kerr, 2001). According to a recent National Institutes of Health study, acupuncture is most frequently used in both China and the U.S. for musculoskeletal pain relief, with other common uses for pain including migraine and peripheral nerve neuralgia (Xu X, 2001)
Acupuncture is a safe, painless alternative, and a very effective procedure for eliminating or relieving pain. Acupuncture can greatly enhance the effect of other natural or conventional therapies when used together.
Benefits of Acupuncture:
1. Stimulates the body to heal itself
2. Reduces pain and inflammation, and relaxes muscles
3. Increases circulation in order to speed up recovery time
4. Reduces pain without the prolonged use of drugs and surgical intervention
5. Promotes physical and emotional well being
6. Enhances endocrine and immune function
7. Compatible with other therapies
During your initial consultation we will review your case history and gain a thorough understanding of your health history. During this process we are able to indentify areas of pain and where acupuncture will benefit you. We will also develop a personalized treatment plan that includes other possible therapies that will contribute to your recovery.
Conditions We Treat:
- Joint Pain, Arthritis, Osteoarthritis,
- Back/Neck Pain, Whiplash, Degenerative Discs
- Fibromyalgia, Myofascial Pain, Tennis Elbow
- Sciatica, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Migraine, Headaches
- Sports/Work/Auto Injuries
- Postoperative Pain
- Malignant Pain
Patients may notice the effectiveness of treatment within the first 2-4 sessions; others have had severe pain, swelling and stiffness significantly relieved by the time they have experienced 6-10 acupuncture treatments. For acute pain, even one or two treatments can be very helpful. More treatment may be required to control the pain from malignancies or progressive disorders.
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