Why “community” acupuncture?
We find that treating patients in a community acupuncture setting has many benefits. It is cost effective and is easier to come in for a 30-minute treatment when you just need to decompress but don’t have a lot of time. It is also easy for friends and family members to come in for treatments together; many patients find it comforting; and a collective energetic field becomes established that actually makes individual treatments more powerful.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is a therapy that uses the insertion of tiny thread-like needles to specific points on the body along meridians (energy channels of the body). In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is linked to the belief that disease is caused by disruptions to the flow of energy, or qi, in the body. Acupuncture stimulates points on or under the skin called acupuncture points or acupressure points, releasing this qi. The qi then travels through channels called meridians. As long as the energy flows freely through these pathways, health is maintained. When the flow of energy is disturbed for any reason, there is disruption in health, resulting in pain or illness. By stimulating the proper acupuncture points along these meridians, the energy is regulated, and health is restored.
What does Acupuncture treat?
With a 3,000-year history, acupuncture successfully addresses many ailments and manages pain with no drugs or side affects. The World Health Organization has issued a comprehensive list of diseases and conditions for which acupuncture has demonstrated therapeutic effect. Acupuncture is a safe, painless alternative for treating the following:
- Arthritis, fibromyalgia, low back pain, neck pain.
- Asthma, allergies and other respiratory symptoms.
- Gastrointestinal/Digestive issues.
- Gynecological issues such as infertility, PMS, irregular and/or painful menses.
- Depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress.
- Prenatal and post natal care
- Addictions
And many, many more physical, emotional and neurological issues.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is widely acknowledged as one of the safest forms of medicine. Acupuncture needles are pre-sterilized, individually packaged, and disposable. Acupuncturists undergo extensive training and are regulated by the individual states’ medical board.
One of the greatest advantages of acupuncture is that it has virtually no side effects. Occasionally a small temporary bruise may appear at the site of an acupuncture needle. When compared to the laundry list of cautions and side effects for the average pharmaceutical drug, acupuncture is very low risk!
What should I expect during a treatment?
Most people barely feel a thing when needles are inserted. Some people feel a slight pinch, usually depending on where the needle is inserted. Acupuncture needles are solid, flexible, and very, very thin (about the width of two hairs). There are certain sensations associated with the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. These may include heaviness, distention, tingling or electric sensation traveling along a meridian. Some people say it feels like you are floating on clouds. If any discomfort is experienced, it is usually mild and temporary. Most people find acupuncture treatments very relaxing and comfortable and usually drift off to sleep.
How often do I need treatment?
That depends on your medical condition. One of the benefits of community acupuncture is that it allows patients to come in frequently, often 2-3 times per week. Many conditions respond more quickly to frequent acupuncture treatments, while other patients only need to come in once a week. Once your condition is stabilized, you won’t need to come in as frequently. When you come in for your first treatment, we’ll formulate a specific treatment plan for you.
How do I prepare for treatment?
Eat something light a few hours before treatment. Please do not wear heavy perfume or cologne. Wear loose clothing that can comfortably be rolled up to your elbows and knees. Turn off your cell phone and prepare to relax.