What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which originated in China more than 5,000 years ago. Based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is a safe, natural and effective type of therapy that involves the insertion of hair-thin needles into the skin at precise points, known as acupuncture points.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine practice where very fine needles are placed at specific points on the body. This technique aims to balance the flow of Qi, the body's vital energy, which travels through pathways called meridians. When Qi is blocked or out of balance, it can lead to illness or pain. By restoring the natural flow of Qi, acupuncture promotes healing and overall well-being.

What is Qi?

Qi is the vital energy that flows through the body, protecting it from illness and pain. It moves along pathways known as meridians, each associated with specific organs. Balanced Qi results in health and well-being, while blocked or imbalanced Qi can cause discomfort and disease. Factors like stress, diet, lack of exercise, and emotional trauma can disrupt the flow of Qi.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture works by:

• Balancing Qi: It restores the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body.
• Releasing Endorphins: It triggers the body's natural painkillers.
• Influencing Neurotransmitters: It affects brain chemicals that transmit nerve signals.
• Modulating the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): It can influence heart rate, digestion, and other automatic body functions.
• Improving Circulation: It enhances blood flow, which helps with healing.
• Stimulating Electrical Currents: It activates the body's natural electrical signals.

Is acupuncture painful? What does it feel like?

While everyone experiences acupuncture differently, most people find that acupuncture is a very comfortable and relaxing procedure. The needles used are so thin that most people barely feel a thing upon insertion. Most of the time acupuncture produces some kind of sensation at the site of needling, such as numbness, heaviness, tingling, dull aching, distention, soreness, warmth or an electric sensation. This moment is when a person literally feels an acupuncture point working, known in traditional acupuncture term as “De Qi” (obtaining of Qi).

Which diseases can be helped by acupuncture?

Acupuncture is extremely successful in the treatment of a multitude of conditions. Many people try acupuncture as a "last resort" to serious and complex medical problems, and find that it can help them when other treatments could not.

The most common ailments people present themselves to an acupuncturist tend to be pain related condition, e.g. arthritis, migraines, back, neck, knee joint and shoulder pain, and nerve pain such as sciatica and carpal tunnel syndrome.

However, traditional Chinese medicine is a complete medical system that is capable of diagnosing and successfully treating a wide range of conditions.The following conditions have been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as treatable by acupuncture.

How Can Our Acupuncturists Help?

Your first visit includes a detailed health consultation. The acupuncturist will take your health history, check your pulse, examine your tongue, and perform a physical assessment to identify any imbalances in your Qi. This information helps create a personalized treatment plan. The initial session lasts about one hour, and follow-up visits are typically around 45 minutes.

Acupuncturists check specific pulse points on your wrist, which correspond to different organs and pathways, to gain insights into your health. They also examine your tongue’s color, shape, and coating, which can reveal important information about your overall health.

Safety and Sensations During Acupuncture

During acupuncture, you might feel sensations like gentle pressure, numbness, warmth, tingling, or an energy flow. The needles are very fine and designed for comfort. Most people find the experience relaxing and may even fall asleep once the needles are in place.

Treatment Duration and Frequency

The number of treatments required varies from person to person. Some may experience relief quickly, while others, especially those with chronic conditions, may need several months of treatment. Initially, more frequent sessions (one or two per week) may be recommended. For ongoing wellness and prevention, regular treatments might continue even after the main issues are resolved.

Use of Herbs in Acupuncture

Herbal supplements may be used alongside acupuncture to enhance healing and address specific imbalances. Your acupuncturist will discuss whether herbal supplementation is suitable for your personalized wellness plan.

This holistic approach aims to balance the body's energy, addressing both symptoms and underlying causes to promote overall health and well-being.

General Post-Treatment Recommendations

• Rest and Relaxation: After your session, take some time to rest and relax. Acupuncture can be deeply relaxing, and allowing your body to continue this relaxation can help the treatment's effectiveness.
• Avoid Strenuous Activity: Give your body time to adjust and heal by avoiding heavy exercise or strenuous activities for the rest of the day. Gentle movements like walking or stretching are fine.
• Hydration: Drink two glasses of warm water after acupuncture to help eliminate waste from your body. Staying well-hydrated will also aid in flushing out toxins and supporting your body's natural healing processes
• Eat Lightly: Opt for light, nutritious meals. Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods immediately after your treatment to prevent any digestive discomfort.
• Monitor Your Body: Pay attention to how you feel in the hours and days following your treatment. It's normal to experience changes, such as feeling more relaxed, energized, or even tired as your body adjusts.
• Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Try to minimize or avoid alcohol and caffeine intake after your session, as these can interfere with the body’s healing process.
• Keep Warm: Stay warm to help your body remain relaxed and to support the flow of Qi. Dress warmly and avoid exposure to cold or damp environments.
• Continue with Normal Activities: You can resume most of your regular activities, but be mindful of your body's signals and avoid overexertion.

Ongoing Care and Follow-Up

• Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: Acupuncture is most effective when done regularly. Discuss with your acupuncturist about the frequency of follow-up sessions for your specific condition.
• Communicate with Your Acupuncturist: Keep your acupuncturist informed about any changes or reactions you experience after treatment. This information can help tailor future treatments to your needs.
• Herbal Supplements: If prescribed, take any herbal supplements as directed by your acupuncturist. These can help enhance the effects of acupuncture and support your health goals.