What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the placement of extremely thin needles at strategic points on your body. The acupoints chosen are stimulated to promote the body's ability to heal and balance itself. Each point chosen corresponds to the patient's condition. It is a safe & effective holistic medicine that has been in use for over 2,000 years. The goal of treatment is to renew the healthy flow of qi and blood, reduce pain and promote well-being.
Needles are sterile, nontoxic and for single use only.
What Does It Treat?
Acupuncture is cited by the World Health Organization to successfully treat over 44 conditions.
While acupuncture is well-know for its treatment of pain, conditions treated include (but not limited to):
- Stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, addiction/recovery
- Migraines, arthritis, joint pain, low-back pain, sciatica, carpal tunnel
- PMS, irregular, heavy or painful menstruation, fertility support
- Common cold, cough, allergies, asthma, sinusitis, sore throat
- Hypertension, hypotension, hyperlipidemia
- Neurological disorders
- Digestive disorders
Does It Hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very fine and flexible and are designed to be painless. Insertion may go unnoticed or you may feel a small pinch followed by a sensation of tingling, warmth, heaviness or distention. Usually a sensation of relaxation or well being accompany the treatment.
What Treatment Modalities Are Used?
Your treatment may include, acupuncture, moxibustion, IR heat lamp therapy, cupping, guasha, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary or lifestyle recommendations.
How Many Visits Will I Need?
Acupuncture has a cumulative effect and is most effective if done 1-2 times per week. I generally recommend 4-6 visits. Long-standing issues will take longer to treat but some results should be felt after the first few treatments.
What Will My First Treatment Be Like?
Your treatment will include a comprehensive health history and discussion of your goals for treatment along with a customized plan. Vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse and tongue analysis will be performed. You will lie in a comfortable position and needles will be placed for 20-30 minutes, depending on your condition. During this time you may sleep or simply relax. The needles will be removed and we may discuss dietary suggestions, herbal prescriptions and lifestyle recommendations.
What Should I Wear?
I generally recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing that can be easily moved around. However, we realize this might not always be possible therefore have plenty of sheets, blankets and towels available for draping should we need to access an area not readily available.
Should I Eat Before Treatment?
You should eat something prior to treatment but not to the point of being overly full. Be sure to hydrate both before and after your treatment