The body forms disharmonies as a result of the various physical and mental stresses of life. Oriental medical theory explains these disharmonies as an imbalance of opposing forces called yin and yang. This imbalance disrupts the movement of the body’s vital energy (qi) along the meridian pathways, which are channels through which the body’s energy is thought to flow. Acupuncture restores the smooth flow of qi. By inserting and manipulating needles at specific points on the body, I am able to return the body to its natural balance.
Acupuncture has no side effects, can gently raise your White Blood Cell count, Serotonin levels, Gastric acids and Endorphin levels to help the body heal itself.
Most patients start treatment for pain conditions, but soon find relief for many other health concerns and overall prevention as well.
What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?
Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will feel like hypodermic injections at the doctor’s office. They won’t. Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that you will hardly feel when I insert them., you will often feel more from a massage. Most patients find these acupuncture sensations deeply satisfying and leave the treatment feeling relaxed both mentally and physically.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more then one treatment is necessary. For acute conditions you can expect to have 10 to 15 treatments, but you will usually begin to feel relief after just the first few. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond, depending on the type, severity, and duration of the condition. Preventative treatments and treatments for general well-being may also be scheduled on an as-needed basis.
Your First Visit
When you arrive for your first acupuncture appointment I will ask you to complete a comprehensive intake form. The acupuncture intake form asks questions about your current state of health, past illnesses, and family history. These questions are important because the holistic approach of Oriental medicine takes everything into account. Your current symptoms may not seem related to past health issues, but our bodies are complex landscapes and everything that happens to them leaves its mark.After reviewing your intake form, we will discuss your condition, and I will examine your pulse and tongue, which are two of the basic diagnostic methods of Oriental medicine. The acupuncture points I choose will depend on your condition, but you can expect approximately 20 needles. Once the needles are inserted, I will leave you to lie comfortably for 15-20 minutes with the needles in place. Many people find acupuncture treatment deeply relaxing, and it is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep during this time.
What Can Acupuncture Treat?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has found that based on clinical research, Acupuncture is effective in the treatment over 300 imbalances, including:
Allergies, Cold, Flu
Arthritis & Joint Pain
Pregnancy Issues
PMS & Painful Menses
Autoimmune / Fibromyalgia
Fatigue & Insomnia
Smoking / Addictions
Anxiety & Depression
Infertility
Diarrhea & IBS
PCOS
Sciatica
Back Pain
Nerve Pain
Headaches
Constipation