What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a key practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), renowned for its ability to boost the body’s natural healing processes. This ancient technique involves the precise insertion of ultra-fine needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points, to balance the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital life energy.

From a Western perspective, research indicates that acupuncture enhances the body’s natural painkillers, like endorphins and adenosine, while improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation. It also offers mental health benefits by regulating serotonin levels, which can improve mood and alleviate anxiety and depression.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognizes acupuncture as a complementary health approach, with evidence supporting its effectiveness for various conditions, especially in pain management.

Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture And TCM

• What is Acupuncture used for?
• How many treatments will I need?
• How should I prepare for treatment?
• What should I expect?
• What are your rates and insurance info?
• What does acupuncture feel like?

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:

• • • Headaches
    • Digestive and urinary disorders
    • Diarrhea
    • Constipation
    • IBS
    • Bloating
    • Acid reflux
    • Nausea
    • Morning sickness
    • Gynecological disorders
    • PMS
    • Irregular periods
    • Infertility
    • Discomfort during pregnancy
    • PCOS
    • Menopausal symptoms
    • Endometriosis
    • Muscle pain and strain
    • Stress
    • Insomnia
    • Allergies
    • Sinusitis
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Fatigue
    • Arthritis
    • Back pain
    • Sciatica
    • Joint pain
    • Acute and chronic pain

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.