What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture treats pain, illness, dysfunction and bodily discomforts by the insertion of extremely fine needles into specific points on the body. In Chinese medicine, it is believed that the body has energy, called "Qi" or "Chi" which travels on specific pathways throughout the body called "meridians" or "channels" much the way blood travels throughout the body in the blood vessels. In fact, the Qi/energy is believed to travel along with the blood to help the body regulate all bodily functions, to invigorate, and to protect against invasion by pathogens.

What are Acupuncture's strengths?

Acupuncture is excellent for nurturing balance in the body, mind & spirit. Although it is helpful to help the body deal with pain, nausea, and the side-effects of western medical treatments for many severe or even life-threatening illnesses, acupuncture excels at treating the myriad of small problems that affect the quality of every day life, such as poor digestion, sleep, and minor aches and pains. According to the NIH, acupuncture is primarily a recommended treatment for pain. In my practice I have had success helping people with the following:

Does it hurt?

Generally, acupuncture does not hurt. Most people (even those very sensitive or afraid of needles!) barely feel most needle insertions. Most people only feel the "needle sensation" of pressure, movement, tingling, once I manipulate the needles by gently turning them back and forth. Occasionally a needle hurts, and I remove it. Strangely enough, inserting another needle right away takes away the pain.

Is it safe?

Yes, it is a very safe procedure. I only use sterile single-use needles, and dispose of them in a medical waste container as soon as I remove them.