Acupuncture Therapy

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a therapy where thin, solid needles are gently inserted into specific points on your body. These needles are then moved by hand or with mild electrical stimulation. Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, which believes the body has over 2,000 points connected by pathways called meridians. These pathways carry energy, known as Qi ("chee"), which supports overall health. If this energy flow is disrupted, it can lead to illness. Acupuncture aims to restore the flow of Qi and improve health. It's important to note that acupuncture may not be suitable for everyone, so discuss it with your doctor first and ensure you choose a licensed and well-trained practitioner.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

During an acupuncture session, the practitioner will insert very thin needles into specific spots on your body, which usually causes little to no discomfort. Each practitioner has their own unique style, often blending techniques from both Eastern and Western medicine. Your first session may involve an evaluation of your symptoms, behavior, and lifestyle, and could take up to an hour, while follow-up sessions typically last around 30 minutes.

What to Expect During the Procedure:

• Needle Insertion: The needles are inserted at various depths depending on the specific points being targeted. You might not feel the needles at all, or you may feel a mild aching sensation when the needle reaches the correct depth. Typically, 5 to 20 needles are used in a session.
• Needle Manipulation: The practitioner may gently move or twirl the needles, or apply heat or mild electrical pulses to them.
• Needle Removal: The needles usually stay in place for 10 to 20 minutes while you relax. There is usually no discomfort when they are removed.

After the Procedure: Some people feel relaxed, while others may feel energized after acupuncture. However, not everyone responds to the treatment. If your symptoms don’t improve after a few weeks, acupuncture might not be the right choice for you.

Conditions Treated by Acupuncture:

Acupuncture is believed to stimulate the central nervous system, which can release chemicals that promote the body’s natural healing and improve physical and emotional well-being. It has been shown to be effective in treating conditions such as:

• Nausea from surgery or chemotherapy
• Dental pain after surgery
• Addiction
• Headaches
• Menstrual cramps
• Tennis elbow
• Fibromyalgia
• Myofascial pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Low back pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Asthma

Risks and Side Effects:

While acupuncture is generally safe, there are some potential risks:

• It may not be safe for people with bleeding disorders or those on blood thinners.
• Some patients may experience bleeding, bruising, or soreness at the needle sites.
• Unsterilized needles can cause infections.
• In rare cases, a needle might break and cause internal damage.
• There is a very rare risk of a collapsed lung if needles are inserted too deeply into the chest or upper back.

In the United States, acupuncture needles are regulated as medical devices by the FDA. They must be sterile, non-toxic, and used only once by a licensed practitioner. It’s advisable to use acupuncture alongside conventional treatments, especially for chronic or severe conditions.