Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that promotes the body’s own natural healing. It can support one’s physical and emotional health by restoring a person’s immunity, energetic balance, and sense of well-being. It is a safe and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems. Acupuncture mainly consists of the insertion of fine needles into the body at specific points in order to treat imbalances or specific conditions; however, other modalities, such as Chinese herbs, moxibustion and cupping, are often used in conjunction with acupuncture treatments.
Each of us has qi (pronounced Chee) or “vital energy” that flows through channels or meridians throughout our bodies. If there is a disruption in this flow, symptoms may manifest in the form of physical pain, fatigue, anxiety, etc. Acupuncture regulates the qi by guiding it to areas of weakness and draining it from areas of excess. As a result, it nurtures the body by bringing it back into balance and harmony.
The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as an effective modality to treat over 40 diseases such as:
Acupuncture needles are very fine, not much thicker than a hair, making their insertion virtually painless. It is common to feel slight tingling, warmth, heaviness, or dull and achy sensation as the Qi begins to move and open up the body’s channels. Most people find acupuncture extremely relaxing, and many even fall asleep during treatment.
The number of visits depends on the nature of the condition a person is seeking treatment for, as well as their general health. An acute condition tends to require less visits than someone with a chronic condition. A common acupuncture prescription is six to eight consecutive weekly treatments.
The initial visit lasts approximately an hour and a half and includes a comprehensive assessment of all of your body systems. The practitioner will then use this information to come up with an appropriate treatment. Often times your practitioner will prescribe Chinese herbal formulas or make supplement recommendations, as well as offer dietary and lifestyle advice. Typically, 10-20 acupuncture needles will be inserted and retained for approximately 45-50 minutes. There may also be other modalities used during your treatment such as cupping, moxibustion, tuning forks, and massage. Follow-up appointments last 45 minutes to an hour.
