Acupuncture

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the primary treatments used in the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine. According the TCM, acupuncture promotes the body’s healing abilities by regulating the flow of Qi (vital life energy in the body, pronounced “chee”) by inserting very fine needles into specific points in the body.

Over many years, TCM has mapped out the flow of Qi in the body through a system called meridians. Each of the 12 main meridians connects to one specific organ, or group of organs, that govern particular bodily functions. Illness results when Qi stagnates or is blocked, or when the body has too little, or too much, of it. When energy flows freely, well being is restored.

Research has found that acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin in the brain and central nervous system. Endorphins and serotonin are natural chemicals that regulate pleasure and mood. Enhanced levels of these natural chemicals can have a strong affect on a persons mood and provide pain relief

Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture And TCM

Q. What is acupuncture used for?

A. Many ailments can be treated by Traditional Chinese Medicine. TCM is also used in prevention of illness and to stimulate the immune system.

Commonly treated conditions:

According The World Health Organization, there are more than 100 different kinds of diseases and illnesses that can be treated very effectively by using acupuncture.

Q. How many treatments will I need?

A. The number of sessions depends on the goal of treatment. For acute conditions, a few treatments will usually be sufficient. Chronic and more complex problems may need one or two treatments per week for several months and, throughout the year, may require maintenance treatments. For more information, CLICK HERE.

Q. How should I prep for treatment?

A. Wear comfortable and loose clothing. Have a light meal but do not consume any alcoholic beverages before treatments. Remember to tell your practitioner all of your medications and any physical or mental conditions. If possible, bring a list of all medications to your session.

Q. What should I expect?

A. You will be asked for a detailed history, and your practitioner will check your tongue and take your pulses. After a treatment, you may want to rest, or you may feel invigorated. Chinese medicine can be a catalyst for subtle, and not so subtle, change because it reverberates in both the body and spirit.

Q. What are your rates and insurance info?

A. Please check our rates page and our insurance page for this information.

Q. What does acupuncture feel like?

Each person is different. During the insertion of needles, some people feel nothing, while others experience a quick twinge, which may be followed by tingling, numbness, heaviness or warmth. Unlike hypodermic needles that are used for injections, acupuncture needles are solid, remarkably thin, and therefore cause very little pain.

Needles generally remain in place for 20-45 minutes. During an acupuncture session, individuals often describe a feeling of calm and relaxation. At the end of a session, the acupuncturist quickly removes the needles. This is painless. Symptom relief may occur immediately, or in the few days that follow a treatment. For complex, longstanding complaints, more than one treatment is required.

Share