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Basic Info

How does acupuncture work?

AcupunctureThe classical Chinese explanation is that channels of energy run in regular patterns through the body and over its surface. These energy channels, called meridians, are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish the tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers is like a dam that backs up in others.

Needling the acupuncture points can influence these meridians. The acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the dams and reestablish a regular flow through the meridians. Acupuncture treatments can help the body’s internal organs to correct imbalances in their digestion, absorption, and energy production activities, and in the circulation of their energy through the meridians.

The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body’s own internal regulating system.

The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.

Inserting very fine stainless steel disposable needles into specific points on the body stimulates the body’s natural healing abilities and promotes physical and emotional well-being.

In addition to needling, there is also cupping (glass globes placed on the body where heat creates a vacuum suction effect), moxabustion (the burning of herbs over an area of the body or acupuncture point, or auricular medicine, which is needling  specific points on the auricula or the outer ear.

Acupuncture can treat a wide variety of ailments including, but not limited to:

  • acute and chronic pain
  • injuries
  • back/neck/shoulder pain
  • sciatica
  • arthritis
  • golfer’s elbow
  • carpal tunnel syndrome
  • sinusitis
  • facial pain
  • TMJ
  • headache
  • migraines
  • allergies
  • immune system disorders
  • stress
  • fatigue
  • fertility issues
  • insomnia
  • digestive problems
  • depression
  • mood disorders
  • PMS
  • menopause
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