6.05.19

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of energetic healing rooted in thousands of years of traditional Chinese medical practices. The basic theory of acupuncture is that there are channels of energy called meridians that run through the body. Each meridian represents different organs within the body, such as the liver, spleen, heart, etc. When the body is healthy, energy (also known as Qi) flows smoothly through the meridians. When there is a disruption or obstruction of the natural flow of Qi, symptoms and disease manifest. Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles along these meridians to manipulate the flow of Qi within the body, correcting imbalances and allowing the body to heal.  

What can you expect?

Usually, the needles used are about 0.25 mm in diameter (or less) and vary in length based on the body part they are inserted into. Many people are concerned about acupuncture being painful but for the most part, it shouldn’t be! The feedback I most often get is “I never thought I could feel so relaxed with needles in me.” A deep, achy sensation is normal and usually dissipates after a couple of minutes. It shouldn’t feel sharp, so it isn’t at all like getting an injection at the doctor’s office. People often don’t even feel the needles going in.

Treatments generally last about 30-45 minutes. The number of treatments required depends on what we are hoping to treat with acupuncture. I often suggest at least 6 weeks of weekly treatments for long-term benefits but this varies from person to person.  

What can acupuncture help with?

In all honesty, acupuncture can help with most things. I often tell my patients that they can achieve their health goals without acupuncture, but that acupuncture will get them there faster. Some common reasons people seek acupuncture include:

• Acne
• Painful, irregular periods
• Stress, anxiety, depression
• Digestive concerns such as IBS or constipation 
• Low energy
• Headaches 
• Muscle, ligament, or joint pain such as arthritis