Skip to content

About Acupuncture

How does Acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is a therapy which uses natural laws and energetics with the application of needles and pressure to stimulate specific points on the body.  These points are grouped along energy pathways or meridians that cross the body.  As long as the energy flows freely through these pathways, health is maintained.  When the flow of energy is either absent, deficient, interrupted, excessive or blocked in an area, health is disrupted, resulting in illness or pain.  By stimulating appropriate acupuncture points along the meridians, the energy is released and regulated, and health is restored.

Studies indicate that acupuncture influences the central and peripheral nervous systems and releases endorphins from the brain making it particularly effective in pain control.  Among a host of factors, acupuncture affects sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in the blood, the functioning of the gastrointestinal system, and the activity of the endocrine system.

Acupuncture works with the body, harmonizing and balancing energy.  It improves circulation and allows the body to heal itself more quickly and more completely.

What should you expect during treatment?

Most patients find the treatments very relaxing which results in a feeling of well-being. Many patients are surprised at how comfortable they are during the treatment and how easily the needles are placed. Some people even go to sleep during treatment. A patient may feel a slight sensation upon entry and then a dull pressure or surging reaction when the needle reaches the “chi” or correct point.  The tiny thin needles are specifically designed to be virtually painless.  Rest assured, acupuncture needles are far different from hypodermic needles used for injections.

Is acupuncture safe?

One of the great advantages of acupuncture is the absence of serious side effects.  The needles generally cause no bleeding on entry or removal, and are pre-sterilized and disposable.

What if you absolutely hate needles?

We will use one of several methods that do not require the use of needles.

How many treatments are necessary?

The number of treatments necessary varies since each condition is unique and no two people respond exactly the same.  The length of treatment depends on the type, severity and duration of the condition, as well as the patient’s physical state at the time of treatment.  Both the examination and the response to treatment can give us an idea of what to expect.  We conduct ongoing evaluations in order to assess progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan.  For the best therapeutic results, it is important to follow the treatment plan and recommendations carefully.  It is also vital to complete the course of therapy in order to restore health.

What are the different styles of acupuncture?

Acupuncture originated in China but has spread to Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Europe, and America. Different styles have developed over the centuries based on different opinions as to theory and technique.

During our consultation we will discuss the various styles and you will have an understanding about the treatment being proposed. While the basic theoretical principles of acupuncture remain the same, different styles of acupuncture differ greatly in technique and diagnosis.

While the basic theoretical principles of acupuncture remain the same, different styles of acupuncture differ greatly in technique and diagnosis.

Traditional Chinese Acupuncture (TCM)

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the most common form of acupuncture studied and practiced in the United States.

Japanese Style Acupuncture

Japanese style acupuncture takes a more subtle route than TCM. Fewer and thinner needles are used with less stimulation.

Korean Hand Acupuncture

Points in the hand correspond to areas of the body and to certain disharmonies.

Auricular Acupuncture

Points in the ear correspond to areas of the body and to certain disharmonies. This system is commonly used for pain control and drug, alcohol, and nicotine addictions.

9169247911