Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a centuries-old practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. It involves the gentle insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote natural healing and balance. Many people find relief from stress, pain, and various ailments through this soothing practice. Acupuncture can enhance your body's energy flow, supporting overall wellness and relaxation. Whether you're seeking relief or simply exploring new ways to nurture your health, acupuncture offers a gentle, natural option for well-being.

When receiving treatment from a trained and licensed practitioner, acupuncture is a safe treatment for many conditions. The needles are used in a clean environment, are sterile and disposible. Although small needles are used, the treatment is typically pain free and has almost no negative side effects. Acupuncture is offered as a part of treatment options, considered a complimentary treatment method, which is recommended typically with other forms of therapy such as massage therapy, exercise and healthy eating habits.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, there are specific points along the body that are important for balancing the body's energy, or life force, called "qi" or "chi". This energy balance is believed to be responsible for whether a person is healthy or sick and the points are the specific areas that acupuncture treatments are focused to help restore this balance of energy.

There are 14 channels, or meridians on the body with hundreds of points along each meridian where these acupuncture points are located. They exist on the hands, arms, feet, back, legs and even the head. By gently and lightly inserting fine needles into these certain points, the chi or energy flow will be stimulated and the person's healing systems will be activated and recovery and balance will occur. Some of the major acupuncture meridians are: 

Liver Meridian

Lung Meridian

Heart Meridian

Stomach Meridian

Kidney Meridian

Spleen Meridian 

Acupuncture is a manual therapy done by a clinically trained practitioner who uses techniques to stimulate specific points of the body, most often using needles but it can also be done by hand. The needles are carefully inserted shallowly into the skin, which is typically painless and the practitioner can use anywhere from 10-20 needles or more depending on the treatment plan. Acupressure is a massage-like technique that the practitioner uses to squeeze and stimulate the points of the body that promote the flow of energy and the body's natural healing processes. Electro-acupuncture uses a light electrical current to flow through the needles to stimulate energy flow and has also been used widely for treatment of pain. 

Nervous of needles? Many patients are surprised to experience less anxiety around the concept of needles, particularly the tiny acupuncture needles after their first treatment. We encourage people to ask questions and always engage in educating and empowering those seeking better health and wellness.