Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture is among the oldest healing practices in the world and is only one component of a complete medical system: Traditional Chinese Medicine. The process is safe, effective, and pain-free; it can be used alone or combined with Western Medicine. Every person’s body has the innate capacity to heal, though it may currently be restricted. Acupuncture works to stimulate the body’s healing capabilities in order to strengthen the immune system, stop pain, stimulate blood flow, and regulate organ function. (The philosophy is similar to the understanding that the human brain has incredible abilities, though we rarely access the depths of its potential.) Many patients find that the need for prescription medicines or surgery decreases, or is eliminated entirely, as they return to health naturally with acupuncture and Chinese Medicine.

A core concept of acupuncture is that disease in the body is a sign of “blockage” or an imbalance. The role of the acupuncturist is to carefully observe the signs and symptoms and to remove the constraints in the system. During an acupuncture session, acupuncture needles–very fine, sterile, single use needles–are gently inserted into the skin to stimulate the blood flow, lymphatic fluid, and energy at specific points to promote healing. The patient is then allowed to rest for approximately a half an hour, while the needles promote healing. The procedure stimulates a relaxed state by allowing the brain to release endorphins and decrease cortisol. Many patients fall asleep during their treatment and experience reduced stress for days after each session.

In addition to acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine offers treatments such as cupping, guasha, and moxibustion. Herbal and nutritional therapies are often used in conjunction with manual techniques to enhance health benefits and shorten recovery time.