Acupuncture

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used as a healing modality in China for thousands of years for a wide variety of health conditions. It involves the insertion of very thin, single-use, filiform (solid) needles into the body to improve health and well-being.

How does acupuncture work?

Traditional acupuncture helps the body rebalance itself by stimulating acupuncture points in different areas of the body according to Chinese medicine principles. One explanation for how it does that is by stimulating the central nervous system and parts of the brain that control the release of endorphins, or pain relieving chemicals.

Another explanation is that acupuncture helps promote blood circulation and improves physiological processes in the body which in turn helps reduce inflammation and promotes a better state of overall health. Many acupuncture points are near muscular or nerve pathways which helps explain how acupuncture is able to promote healing. Acupuncture also affects other physiological functions like digestion, sleep, and the immune system.

What does acupuncture do?

• Acupuncture releases muscle tightness.

• Acupuncture reduces pain.

• Acupuncture reduces inflammation.

• Acupuncture promotes circulation.

• Acupuncture reduces stress/anxiety and improves focus.

What can acupuncture help with?

The World Health Organization supports the use of acupuncture and many insurance companies are now covering acupuncture treatments in the United States.

According to the Acupuncture Evidence Project[1], clinical studies have shown it to be a beneficial for over 100 different conditions, including (but not limited to):

• Acute and chronic pain: back and neck pain, headaches/migraines, tendonitis, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and arthritis

• Psychological and emotional disorders: depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, and insomnia

• Digestive disorders: IBS, colitis, gastritis and constipation

• Urinary and reproductive disorders: menstrual cramps, irregular or heavy periods, infertility, and menopausal symptoms

• Managing symptoms of chemotherapy and radiation, including fatigue, generalized pain, dry mouth, peripheral neuropathy, nausea, and vomiting

• Allergies

• Respiratory issues like cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and asthma

• Insomnia and sleep issues

• Heart palpitations

• High blood pressure

• Addictions to nicotine, alcohol, and drugs

[1] Source: McDonald J, Janz S. The Acupuncture Evidence Project: A Comparative Literature Review (Revised edition). Brisbane: Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association Ltd; 2017.

Why Should I See an Acupuncturist?

• Pain Relief: Acupuncture is a highly effective natural treatment for pain relief. It has been shown to reduce chronic pain, back pain, neck pain, knee pain, and other types of pain.

• Stress Relief: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It helps to calm the mind and improve overall well-being.

• Holistic Approach: Acupuncture is a holistic approach to healing that takes into account the whole person, not just the symptoms of a particular condition. It treats the root cause of the problem, rather than just the symptoms.

• Non-invasive: Acupuncture is a non-invasive treatment that does not involve drugs or surgery. It is a safe and natural alternative to traditional medical treatments.

• Personalized Treatment: Acupuncture treatment plans are personalized to meet the unique needs and goals of each patient. This ensures that each patient receives the best possible treatment for their individual condition.

• Improved Quality of Life: Acupuncture can improve overall quality of life by reducing pain, stress, and anxiety. It can also improve sleep, digestion, and other bodily functions.

Overall, acupuncture is a safe, effective, and natural approach to healing that can provide significant benefits for a wide range of conditions. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, stress, anxiety, or other health concerns, acupuncture can help you achieve better health and well-being.