Acupuncture
How it works
The first record of Traditional Chinese Medicine dates back over 2,000 years, though it is believed that the origin of TCM goes back for more than 5,000 years. Over the course of its history, experiences and techniques prove that TCM works effectively.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, stagnant or blocked energy is the root of illness, pain, and disease. In a healthy, balanced individual, this energy (known as Qi) flows smoothly along pathways (known as meridians) that run throughout the body. It’s on these pathways that acupuncture points are located. There are hundreds of points on the body, each corresponding to a particular body system, organ, or anatomical area, which if blocked, prevent proper energy flow causing imbalance.
Scientific research has revealed much about the acupoint. Acupoints are shown to be located in high concentrations of nerve bundles and nerve endings, mast cells (used for immune response), lymphatic ducts, and capillaries.
To stimulate acupuncture points, hair-thin needles are inserted just under the skin’s surface. Unlike conventional needles, acupuncture needles have smooth, rounded tips designed to gently separate tissue rather than puncture it. Their solid, slender structure allows them to glide and reach precise points (You might feel a slight sting or pinch on some points, but it’s a quickly passing discomfort.)
Based on your personal health and wellness needs, your acupuncturist will select a variety of points to stimulate. As blocked energy begins to flow and your body relaxes during treatment, feel-good hormones like endorphins, norepinephrine, and oxytocin (responsible for pain relief, improved mood and feelings of wellbeing, increased alertness and memory, or deep rest and calm) are released.
Treatment
Acupuncture treatments begin with an assessment of individual needs and a treatment plan. Acupuncture stimulates the body’s self-healing mechanism by inserting ultrafine needles just under the skin’s surface at various points on the body, called acupuncture points. Depending on the patient’s condition, she may also incorporate complementary techniques, such as cupping, gua sha, or massage, to enhance the therapeutic effects.
Acupuncture can be used to address a variety of health concerns, including:
Acute and chronic pain
Injuries
Headaches
TMJ dysfunction
PMS
Digestive issues
Stress, anxiety, and depression
What to expect at your Acupuncture appointment
For your first appointment, arrive 10 minutes early to get settled. We recommend eating a light snack, avoiding caffeine, and staying hydrated.
Your acupuncturist will address your individual health concerns and take time to ensure you’re comfortable with the treatment plan, tailoring a treatment to match your needs. Treatment may include acupuncture, cupping, gua sha and short acupressure massage. Open communication is encouraged before, during, and after your appointment.
Your practitioner will briefly leave the room so you can lie down and get settled. We’ll provide blankets to keep you covered, warm, and comfortable during your treatment. If you prefer not to undress, please wear relaxed, loose clothing that can easily be rolled up at the legs or sleeves.
You should rest assured that safety is a top priority and attention is given to clean needle technique and selection of high quality needles.
It’s common to feel deeply relaxed and peaceful during and after a session.
Post treatment it’s important to stay well-hydrated, and while it’s okay to carry on with your daily activities or exercise routine, we recommend taking it easy. You may experience a little fatigue, and in some rare cases very mild flu-like symptoms (aching, headache) - all signs of your body’s natural healing and detoxification process.