What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a manual therapy that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into the body to achieve different therapeutic results.
Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical disorders, like:
Pain relief: Injury recovery, Headaches and Migraines, Back pain, Neck pain, Facial pain, TMJ, Muscular tension, Sprains and strains, Chronic pain, Arthritis, Sciatica, Inflammatory conditions, Osteoarthritis.
Womens health: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), Infertility, Morning sickness, Dysmennorrhea and painful periods, Amenorrhea, Urinary tract infections, PCOS.
Mental/emotional health: Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, Stress management, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia.
Respiratory disorders: Asthma, Allergies, Bronchitis, Common colds and flu, Covid-19 recovery, Sore throat, Upper respiratory tract infection.
Digestive disorders: Bloating and abdominal distention, Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation, Diarrhea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Ulcerative Collitis.
How it works
Acupuncture needles are inserted into specific points along energetic meridians that run throughout the body, and each of these meridians communicates with one another to promote homeostasis and eliminate the disease. In other words, acupuncture heals the body by stimulating specific points on these meridians that can impact biochemical and physiological conditions in the body as well as stimulate sensory receptors. These sensory receptors then signal nerves to transmit impulses to the hypothalamic-pituitary system in the brain where neurotransmitters and endorphins are released, easing pain, promoting healing, and improving immune function. Through this mechanism, acupuncture has the ability to address specific health concerns and help you achieve optimal health and wellbeing.
The Procedure
Each acupuncture appointment begins with a detailed health history intake questionnaire and physical examination. Next, the examination of the tongue, pules, and vital signs are conducted. Acupuncture needles are inserted and retained for about 25-40 minutes, while the patient relaxes and integrates the effects of the needles.
Needles are then removed, and future treatment plans and patient goals are discussed. At this time practitioner will discuss Lifestyle recommendations, nutritional counseling, possible herbs & supplements that may enhance your healing progress. A clear treatment plan will be outlined for future sessions and progress moving forward.
Aftercare
Rest and hydrate.
Be gentle with yourself.
Ask your acupuncturist about any questions you may have.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Follow lifestyle recommendations presented by your practitioner.
Eat a healthy meal.