Acupuncture is a medical technique of inserting & manipulating fine, sterile needles, approximately the diameter of a cat’s whisker, into specific acupuncture points and meridians on the body. This stimulates the body's Qi (innate energy) to promote healing of the body by enhancing physical and emotional health. Acupuncture is safe, painless and effective in treating a wide variety of medical conditions.

Because of the proven effectiveness of acupuncture throughout the ages; it has evolved into a complete holistic form of health care. Practitioners of acupuncture have used this non-invasive medical system to help countless people get well and stay healthy.

Do the needles hurt?

The needles are tiny, a little larger than a cat's whisker or a human hair. Most patients do not feel any pain with insertion of the acupuncture needle but those that do say the feeling is similar to a mosquito bite.

What is Qi (chi) and how does is travel?

The basic philosophy of acupuncture originates from the belief in Qi (pronounced chee), or Life Energy.

Qi courses through 14 meridians or pathways that are connected to specific organs and glands throughout the body. Meridians are like rivers which transport life-giving nourishment to the land. Instead of water, meridian pathways transport Qi to nourish every cell, organ, gland, tissue and muscle.

When Qi flows freely, the body functions properly. A blockage of Qi is similar to a dam in a river. The flow of Qi is restricted which can hinder distribution of the nourishment that the body requires to function at optimum health.

What can affect Qi?

Thoughts, traumas and toxins can affect the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Examples of this are overexertion, physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, accidents, seasonal changes, diet, or excessive activity.

When the body is functioning appropriately, it is able to recover from these “stressors” and return to a normal state of health. If Qi is disrupted for a prolonged or excessive time period, or if the body is weakened, illness, pain or disease can occur.

What will my acupuncture physician do?

On your first visit, a full health history will be taken including questions regarding your symptoms, health and lifestyle. We may also conduct a physical exam and check your pulses and your tongue. The information is assessed to create a complete and accurate diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or is out of balance. You may receive an acupuncture treatment after the initial exam. Regular visits may last from 30 to 90 minutes.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments necessary to achieve optimal health is different for everyone. Some experience immediate relief; others may take months to achieve results. The longer a condition has been affecting your body, the longer it will take to resolve. Expect to receive at least a month of treatments to see significant changes. We may suggest one or two treatments per week, monthly visits for health maintenance or seasonal “tune-ups”.

What should I expect during treatment?

Numbness, heaviness and/or tingling may occur where the acupuncture needle has been inserted. Sometimes patients notice a sensation of energy moving around the needle. This is called “Qi sensation”. These reactions are a good indication that the treatment is working. After a treatment, you may either feel energized or relaxed and peaceful.

How safe is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is extremely safe when performed by an Acupuncture Physician rather than other health care professionals with minimal hours of training. It is drug-free, all natural, and has very few negative side effects. Rarely a patient may notice a small bruise at the insertion site. The needles are sterile and discarded after each use.

How should I prepare?

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
• Don't eat large meals just before or after your visit.
• Refrain from overexertion, working out, drugs or alcohol for up to 6 hours after the visit.
• Avoid stressful situations. make time to relax and be sure to get plenty of rest.
• Between visits, take notes of any changes that may have occurred such as; alleviation of the pain, pain moving to other areas, or changes in the frequency and type of problem.