The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture for its effective treatment of over 40 medical conditions. Acupuncture is a branch of Chinese medicine that has been around for over 3500 years. An acupuncturist inserts fine needles throughout specific areas of the body to rebalance and strengthen the body’s regulatory systems and redirect energy or qi. The needles increase circulation and blood flow and assist in activating the nervous system, immune system, endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, and much more. Acupuncture is well-known for the treatment of pain, nerve, and ortho-muscular issues. Other modalities of Chinese medicine include herbal medicine, cupping, gua sha, eastern nutrition, and facial rejuvenation. Acupuncture is also effective in treating issues associated with women’s health, labor preparation, substance abuse and smoking cessation, and prevention.
FAQ
Does it work?
Definitely! Acupuncture improves the body’s functions by promoting a natural self-healing process through the stimulation of acupuncture points. There are hundreds of studies to support the efficacy of this medicine and it’s ability to promote recovery. Healing begins with the first treatment and, depending on age, health condition, and severity of the issue(s), one can see improvement immediately, or it could take a few weeks or months to fully recover.
Does it hurt?
Nope! Acupuncture needles are fine, bendable, and sterile. They are inserted through the skin’s surface without significantly disrupting the underlying nerves or vasculature. Once inserted, patients sometimes notice a mild dull, achy, itching, or buzzing sensation around the area of insertion, if anything at all. In general, people find acupuncture painless and very relaxing.
What to expect on your first visit?
Initial visits last 60 minutes and include a thorough intake of past and current health history, accounting for the primary issue of concern as well as any underlying, constitutional, or other contributing factors causing imbalance. During the initial intake, the practitioner addresses any questions or concerns and comes up with a treatment plan. The acupuncture treatment itself lasts about 30 minutes with needles inserted. During this time the patient relaxes on the table. Follow-up treatments are 45 minutes.
We recommended you wear comfortable clothing, come hydrated and nourished, and plan to spend the remainder of the day without a high level of exertion.