Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a vital part of Chinese medicine, it has been used for thousands of years and remains one of the oldest know systems of healthcare. Acupuncture regulates the body’s ability to heal through the insertion of fine sterile needles in specific points resulting in measurable chemical and functional changes; it remains one of the safest forms of medical treatment. The World Health Organization found acupuncture to be helpful in reducing symptoms of over 50 different conditions.  A typical acupuncture session lasts about one hour. Specific acupuncture points are chosen to address the acute symptoms of the patient while supporting the body, mind and spirit as a whole.

Research

Research has been compiled by the World Health Organization (WHO) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) on Health and Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is important to understand the World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”.  NIH Consensus of Acupuncture reported in 1997 that “studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can cause multiple biological responses, mediated mainly by sensory neurons to many structures within the central nervous system. This can lead to activation of pathways affecting various physiological symptoms in the brain as well as in the periphery. Acupuncture may also activate the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, resulting in a broad spectrum of systemic effects.  Alteration in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and changes in the regulation of blood flow, both centrally and periphery have been documented. There is also evidence of alterations is immune functions produced by acupuncture.” Acupuncture is recognized by the national Institutes of Health (NIH) and World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of:

Frequently asked Questions

• How should I prepare?
  Wear loose comfortable clothing and eat a light meal and hour or two prior to treatment. Limiting caffeine prior to treatment will allow you to fully relax while on the table.
  
• Does acupuncture hurt?
  Since acupuncture needles are very small (about two hair widths), most people report a slight pinch. Many experience a mild tingling or dull heaviness with certain points followed by a feeling of deep relaxation during and after the treatment.
  
• How many treatments are necessary?
  It depends on the duration, severity and nature of the condition and your response to treatment. It is generally suggested that you have at least 2 to 4 treatments in the first 2 weeks and evaluate your progress at that point. In some cases one or two treatments are all it takes. The goal is to get you to the point where you are coming in only periodically to maintain and promote overall wellness or when a new injury or illness occurs.
  
• What are the side effects of treatment?
  The National Institute of Health has found that “one of the advantages or acupuncture is that the incidence of adverse effects is substantially lower than that of the many drugs or other accepted medical procedures used for the same condition”. The most common side effect is occasional bruising at the site of needle insertion.
  
• Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
  The clinics participates in many insurance programs, please contact the clinic you intend to visit to see if your insurance plan covers acupuncture.
  For patients with little or no insurance, discount programs are available.  Please call directly to learn more about payment options.  Cash, credit cards, and checks are accepted at the clinic.