“Many patients are intimidated by the idea of needles before coming for acupuncture treatments. However, most learn quickly that the needles that are used in acupuncture differ drastically from the hyperdermic needles they are most familiar with. Acupuncture needles are as thin as hair and are often unnoticed when inserted. Acupuncture treatments release endorphins no matter what the goal of treatment. Therefore, an acupuncture treatment is not only gentle but also extremely relaxing.” –Dr. Kristin Ward, D.Ac.

WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?

Acupuncture involves the use of very fine, sterile, disposable needles inserted into the body at specific meridian points. Mapped over centuries, these meridians are the channels which carry Qi and Blood (energy and substance) throughout the body. When stimulated, these points regulate the flow of energy, cleanse the system of toxic waste, nourish the body on a cellular level, and promote healing and restoration of the body to its natural balance. 

WHAT DOES ACUPUNCTURE TREAT?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes acupuncture as a suitable treatment for many disorders including:

• Infections - Colds, flu, bronchitis, hepatitis.

• Internal Medicine - Hypoglycemia, diabetes, asthma, blood pressure issues, ulcers, colitis, irritable bowel, nausea, heartburn, hemorrhoids, constipation, diarrhea, chronic fatigue, immune disorders.

• Eyes-Ears-Nose-Throat - Earaches, deafness, ringing in ears, poor eyesight, retinitis, conjunctivitis, uncomplicated cataracts, sinusitis, sore throat, allergies.

• Musculoskeletal & Neurological - Arthritis, back pain, bursitis, tendonitis, headaches, migraines, stroke, cerebral palsy, pre- and post-operative care, repetitive strain, chronic pain.

• Genito-Urinary & Reproductive - Impotence, infertility, PMS, PID, vaginitis, yeast infections, prostatitis, cramps, morning sickness, UTI, irregular periods, menopause.

• Mental & Emotional - Depression, anxiety, insomnia, addictions, weight loss.

• Dermatological - Eczema, psoriasis, acne, herpes.

WHAT TO EXPECT...

Most people find acupuncture relaxing as well as uplifting to the body and spirit. The frequency and number of treatments vary depending on the nature of the disorder, its severity and duration. A detailed health history and consultation are part of your first session.

WILL IT HURT?

There is usually very little pain with insertion of the needles, though people are different in their sensitivity to the needles. This is assessed and taken into consideration during your initial consultation. After insertion of the needle, there may be a feeling of heaviness or denseness experienced at or near the point of insertion. Other times, there is a feeling of movement throughout the body as Qi moves in the channels, sometimes activating points on the body regardless if there is a needle inserted there or not. The pleasant feelings of being relaxed and/or energized, or even euphoric are all normal reactions to acupuncture.