What is Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient system of medicine that originated in China over 3,000 years ago.

The philosophy behind the treatment is that energy lines or meridians circulate around the body. These meridians are where our energy or “Qi” flows throughout our body. When this Qi is out of balance, or blocked, illness can occur.

With the insertion of fine needles at various points on the meridian, the energy can be moved or redirected to where it is needed most. In this way the body's balance can be restored and the illness resolved.

The flow of energy can be disrupted in many ways; emotional upset, physical trauma, poor diet or overwork are all common examples. By examining this underlying cause and how it has affected the body, the most appropriate treatment for the patient can be selected. Treating the patient as an individual is at the core of the acupuncture treatment allowing the body to rebalance itself.

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How Acupuncture Works…

•  balances the immune system.  Can increase T cell counts.  Acupuncture treats allergies and auto-immune disorders.

•  releases pain-killing endorphins which also play a big role in the functioning of the hormonal system. This is why acupuncture works well for back pain, arthritis, ulcers and also for P.M.S.

•  endorphins, released through acupuncture, not only relax the whole body when released, but they also regulate serotonin in the brain which plays a big part in our moods. This is why depression is often treated with acupuncture. Endorphins are natural opiate like substances that are relaxing for the body and the mind.  They also help suppress appetite and cravings.

•  breaks the spasm cycle which muscles can get "caught" in, causing unrelenting tightness and pain. Increases circulation which in turn provides needed nutrients to nerves and muscles to begin healing.

•  acupuncture works with our  “QI”  ( pronounced “chee’) or  "life force" which is simila

r to our electrical circuitry that runs throughout our body. It taps into specific points along this circuitry and balances the energy connecting all of our major organs.

•  acupuncture needles used are as fine as a human hair. The needles are left in place for 20 to 40 minutes during which time the patient usually relaxes under a heat lamp while soft music plays.   The average treatment can be 60 – 90 minutes long.

•  the number and frequency of treatments will vary. Some symptoms are relieved after the first treatment while others may take four to ten treatments. It has an accumulative effect on your body, each treatment building on the next.  Your body chemistry, your particular problem, and the length of time that you have been ill will all play a part in the number and length of treatments.

•  acupuncture works without drugs or chemicals. Acupuncture has no known side effects (aside from relaxation)  and is perfectly safe and comfortable for almost everyone.