Acupuncture promotes the natural healing systems of the body whereas Western Medicine tends to impose a change. This means that Acupuncture is a very powerful compliment to Western medical treatments, especially for chronic or degenerative conditions. It can also be very effective when used independently and has been shown to succeed in many cases where other healing modalities had not.  Certain conditions, most notably back pain and headaches, are currently being shown to have more improvement with acupuncture alone than western medical treatment.

Physiological changes after acupuncture are not a result of the placebo effect and in many cases will occur without conscious knowledge of the patient. Many of the results can be measured by scientific instruments observing neural, hormonal, or chemical changes taking place. Although these results give us an idea of some changes occurring in the body, it is only a superficial representation of the medicinal benefits of Acupuncture.

Yes.  If you would like to read some you can click on the following links: World Health Organization, National Institutes of Health, Acupuncture Today.

Acupuncture needles are very fine, thin, and solid unlike hollow and thicker injection needles. Most people do not find it painful. The patient may feel a sensation of “electricity” or “heaviness” with insertion, but these are positive signs indicating what’s known as “activation” of the Acupuncture point.

Acupuncture is a very safe treatment. Practitioners are required to use disposable, sterile, single-use needles in our treatments. The areas of insertion are cleaned with the required 70% isopropyl alcohol prior to treatment.  Acupuncturists are trained to recognize if there are areas on the body that shouldn’t be treated.

Please bring or wear clothes that are easily accessible like loose fitting clothing, sweats, shorts, tank tops, etc. This will make the treatment go more smoothly and comfortably. The treatment will take from 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the condition of the patient. There will be a few minutes for assessment at the beginning and end of the treatment to closely track progress and increase the potential for a positive change. There may be accessory techniques used such as Tui Na (Chinese
Massage), Moxibustion, cupping, or electric stimulation of the needles to further enhance the treatment benefits.

Acupuncture is suitable for many types of health related issues including chronic and degenerative diseases as well as acute conditions and pain. It also helps with the immune system by enhancing a weak response or moderation of an overactive one.