What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of healing, part of a medical system developed in East Asia over the past 3,000 years. The fact that acupuncture is still practiced today proves that it is an effective medical system that has been adapted to treat modern diseases and pain worldwide.
With the use of needles, we can interact with the patterns of energy flow through the body, which is essential for health. Disruptions to this flow are believed to be responsible for the disease. Acupuncture can increase circulation, decrease inflammation, release endorphins, and reduces the body's stress and inflammatory response, allowing the body to function in a healthy state.
Acupuncture equipment is safe as the FDA regulates the equipment and requires practitioners to use each needle only once. The needles come pre-sterilized, individually packaged, and disposable. Acupuncture needles are so tiny that they are about as big as a strand of hair, so insertion is painless in most cases. Some people may feel a little prick or aching sensation at insertion but will quickly feel calm and re
What to Expect:
When you come in for your visits, you will want to wear or bring loose, comfortable clothing. We can also provide a gown, but most treatments are done wearing your own clothes. Also, be sure you eat a light meal or snack before your appointments. Receiving acupuncture while hungry is not ideal!
We will discuss the symptoms or conditions that brought you to seek treatment. I'll also ask questions about your health in general and your health history. I'll ask to see your tongue and take your pulse as these are important for Chinese medicine diagnosis. They help me understand how all your body's internal systems work together so that I can choose the most appropriate acupuncture points for your treatment.
Then it's time for you to lay down, and your treatment will begin. There will be gentle music and a calm environment for you to relax during your treatment. Sometimes, in addition to needles, I may do additional therapies such as fire cupping or moxibustion if your condition calls for it. Most everyone comes out of their appointments feeling relaxed and much better than when they came in.
I typically like to see new patients twice a week for a couple of weeks, then move to once weekly for another few weeks. After that, the goal is to graduate you to once a month to maintain your newfound wellness.
After your treatment, we ask that you avoid strenuous exercise and drink plenty of water for a couple of hours after your treatment so the treatment can settle in.
Don't hesitate to get in touch with me if you have any questions or would like me to expand on any of the information shared. I would love to answer your questions!
If you're ready to try acupuncture, click here to schedule online!
This blog and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on this blog is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health related program.