What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture stimulates specific points on the body with the insertion and manipulation of fine needles. There are 365 ancient points proven effective in the treatment of specific disorders. These points lie along channels mapped out by the Chinese over 2,000 years ago. These channels stream Qi (vital energy & function), blood, and fluids throughout the body. If moving freely, the body and mind thrive. If the channels become obstructed, there is pain, congestion, stagnant emotions, and eventually illness. Acupuncture helps maintain flow in the channels— it nourishes where there is deficiency, and drains where there is excess.

Contemporary research has confirmed acupuncture initiates chemical, mechanical, and neurological changes that help reduce pain, as well as symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction, and insomnia.

What exactly are the acupuncture needles doing?

• Acupuncture needles stimulate nerve fibers that carry electrical impulses to the brain.

• Neurotransmitters like endorphins, serotonin, and norepinephrine that help relieve stress and pain are released.

• Your sympathetic nervous system also known as your “fight or flight” response is lowered.

• As a result, your heart rate begins to slow down, your breathing regulates, cortisol levels drop, and you begin to feel more relaxed.

Does acupuncture hurt? 

If acupuncture is done properly, you will feel sensations. These sensations may be described as heavy, achy, or tingly. There is usually no discomfort once the needles are in place. When acupuncture’s curative and calming effects are experienced, the benefits usually outweigh the initial discomfort. 

What are Trigger Points?

Trigger points are painful spots that develop in tight bands of muscle tissue, and are most often caused by stress, injury, and chronic muscle tension. Trigger points can also cause referred pain. Referred pain occurs when injury in one area of the body causes pain somewhere else. Trigger points can occur anywhere in the body but are most common in the neck, shoulders, back, and hips. Acupuncture can release these painful areas, offering relief almost immediately. This helps reduce stress so balance and free flow can be restored in the body and mind.   

How will I feel after acupuncture?

Most patients feel deeply relaxed during and after acupuncture treatment. 

Conditions Treated:

Pain Conditions:

• Arthritis

• Back Pain

• Neck Pain

• Sciatica

• Knee Pain

• Joint Pain

• Foot & Ankle Pain

• TMJ Dysfunction

• Tendonitis

• Sports Injuries

• Whiplash  

• Muscle Pain & Tension

• Migraines & Headaches

• Fibromyalgia

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome                                           

Gynecological Conditions:

• Painful Periods

• Irregular Periods

• PMS and PMDD

• Fertility Support