Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient medical system originating more than 3000 years ago. This treatment consists of the process of inserting ultra-thin needles, comparable in size to two strands of human hair, into the skin. Generally, the insertion is painless. Once the needles are placed, the body undergoes its own healing processes. The ancient Chinese discovered meridians that circulate Qi (oxygen) and blood in our body. Along these longitudinal lines or meridians are stations of reactive and sensitive sites known as acupuncture points. Each acupuncture point is situated near or on highly reactive nerve bundles. After the needles are inserted into the acupuncture points, a cascade of mechanisms in the body begin by signaling the central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord) to release anti-inflammatory agents, hormones, endorphins (the body's natural pain killers,) boosting immunity and increasing blood circulation. Essentially, acupuncture and Chinese medicine is a holistic approach to the treatment of a wide variety of illnesses, from pain to internal disorders. Acupuncture is known as a complementary medicine because it supports other forms of healing such as chiropractic, massage, physical therapy, and western medicine. Acupuncture can even help to alleviate side effects from western drugs.
Often pain relief is experienced within the first treatment while chronic, long standing internal conditions may take five or more treatments to see optimal results. There are no drugs in the acupuncture needles when providing pain relief. The relief you feel is the body's natural healing response due to stimulation of the acupuncture points in the nervous system regulating pain and recovery.
Your Initial Appointment
Your initial appointment will consist of gathering a detailed health history. Please bring along your medication and supplements list. If possible, please bring copies of any reports, lab tests, dates of surgeries and any other pertinent information.