Acupuncture
What is acupuncture? 
Acupuncture is a technique of inserting and manipulating small needles
into specific points on the body with the aim of relieving pain and for therapeutic
purposes. Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural
healing and to improve functioning.
What is Medical Acupuncture?
Medical acupuncture is the term used to describe acupuncture performed by a
doctor trained and licensed in Western medicine that has also had thorough
training in acupuncture as a specialty practice. Such a doctor can use one
or the other approach, or a combination of both as the need arises, to treat
an illness.
How does Acupuncture work?
The classical Chinese explanation is that channels of energy run in regular
patterns through the body and over its surface. These energy channels, called
meridians, are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish
the tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers is like
a dam that backs up the flow in one part of the body and restricts it in others.
The meridians can be influenced by needling the acupuncture points: the acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the dams and reestablish the regular flow through the meridians. Acupuncture treatments can therefore help the body's internal organs to correct imbalances in their digestion, absorption, and energy production activities, and in the circulation to their energy through the meridians.
The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system.
The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.
Does acupuncture really work?
Yes, In the past 2,000 years, more people have been successfully treated
with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Today, acupuncture
is practiced around the world.
Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time as other techniques are being used. It is important that your physician-acupuncturist know everything that you are doing, so he or she can help you get the most benefits from all your treatments.
Are there any side effects to the treatment?
Usually not. As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals
and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally,
the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite,
sleep, bowel or urination patterns, or emotional state may be triggered. These
should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture
is starting to work.
It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.
Do the needles hurt?
People experience acupuncture needling differently. Most patients feel only
minimal pain as the needles are inserted: some feel no pain at all. Once the
needles are in place, there is usually a dull ache or no pain felt. Acupuncture needles are very thin
and solid and are made from stainless steel.
How many Treatments will I need?
The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex
or long standing conditions, one or two treatments per week for several months
may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required,
and for health maintenance, four sessions a year may be all that is necessary.
Is acupuncture covered by health insurance?
Some insurance companies currently cover acupuncture costs while
other companies do not. Our staff will review your insurance coverage to determine
acupuncture benefits.