Acupuncture is rooted in the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, which posits that the body has more than 300 acupuncture points connected by pathways or meridians. By inserting needles into these points, acupuncture aims to regulate the flow of qi (pronounced chee), the vital energy force that impacts health. Disruptions in qi from factors such as poor diet or stress can lead to illness or pain. Some Western physicians, while not necessarily adhering to the concept of qi, have recognized acupuncture's benefits. Research suggests that needle insertion can stimulate the nervous system, releasing endorphins, our natural pain-relieving proteins. Others theorize that acupuncture affects fascia, connective tissues linking our organs and muscles.

No, acupuncture needles are much thinner than hypodermic needles, comparable to the width of a few human hairs. These disposable, solid, stainless steel needles lack the cutting edge of injection needles, ensuring minimal discomfort and reduced risk of skin irritation. However, certain acupuncture points or longer needles might induce more sensitivity.

An acupuncture session typically involves the insertion of one to thirty needles, varying in depth from one-eighth of an inch to 1 inch. Most patients experience a slight tingling sensation, known as deqi. Needles can be manipulated to stimulate the acupuncture point and are generally retained for 20 to 35 minutes. While some needles are positioned near pain sources, others are placed on different body parts, including the head and extremities. Some treatments are amplified with E-stim for more profound results.

Please wear loose-fitting clothes similar to gym or yoga attire. Ensure they can easily expose any areas of discomfort. Typically, we access points below the elbows and knees, so avoid tight sleeves and leggings.

Results can vary. While some might not feel significantly better after one session, many practitioners recommend weekly visits for four to six weeks. Persistent issues, like chronic back pain, might necessitate monthly maintenance sessions post-initial relief.

While belief can enhance the experience, it's not a prerequisite. Animals, unaware of the concept, have benefited from acupuncture, demonstrating its effectiveness beyond mere belief.

Only licensed acupuncturists (L.Ac.) and certain physicians can perform acupuncture. Acupuncturists must undergo a rigorous 3-4 year, 3,000-hour training program at an approved institution. While physicians aren't mandated to have specific acupuncture training, a minimum of 200 hours is recommended by organizations like the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture (AAMA). Licensed acupuncturists adopt a holistic approach, focusing on the patient's entire well-being, whereas a physician may center only on pain sources.

Moxibustion: A heat therapy where a Chinese herb called Moxa is burned near specific acupuncture points, beneficial for arthritis and circulation enhancement.

Cupping: Vacuum cups are placed on the skin to draw blood to targeted areas, reducing pain and congestion. The practice gained widespread visibility when athletes at the 2016 Olympics sported easily identifiable cupping marks.

Gua Sha: Using a specialized stone massage tool, surface capillaries are broken to address stiffness and congestion. It's similar to the chiropractic Graston Technique.

Tui Na: A traditional Chinese medical massage, focusing on specific tissues to relieve muscle spasms and knots. Mastery of this art involves intense hands-on training.

E-Stim: A gentle electrical current stimulates pressure points, augmenting acupuncture treatments with a soft tapping sensation.

Qi Gong: Translating to "energy work", it combines breathing techniques and movement exercises to enhance overall health.

You can find detailed information on all of these on our services page.