About Acupuncture

How does acupuncture work?

The effects of acupuncture are complex. How it works is not entirely clear. Research suggests that the needling process, and other techniques used in acupuncture, may produce a variety of effects in the body and the brain. One theory is that stimulated nerve fibers transmit signals to the spinal cord and brain activating the body’s central nervous system. The spinal cord and brain then release hormones responsible for making us feel less pain while improving overall health. In fact, a study using images of the brain confirmed that acupuncture increases our pain threshold, which may explain why it produces long-term pain relief. Acupuncture also increases blood circulation and body temperature, affects white blood cell activity (responsible for our immune function), reduces cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and regulates blood sugar levels.

Acupuncture works on the premise of meridian theory according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): that there are channels of blood and energy (qi) covering the body which are related to the organs and the tendino-muscular system. When the body is in good health, blood and qi (pronounced ‘chee’) flow is balanced and consistent. However, when circulation is disrupted due to trauma, stress, poor diet, medications, the environment or other factors, pain and dis-ease result.

Acupuncture is based on thousands of years analysis and observation.  It is accepted around the globe as a safe, effective and holistic complement or alternative to contemporary western medicine.  The World Health Organization has compiled a list of diseases and disorders in which acupuncture has been proven to be an effective treatment.

Sensitive to needles?

Acupuncture needles are not hollow like hypodermic needles. Consequently,  they are much thinner than you might imagine. In many cases, you will truly not feel the needle being inserted. Nonetheless, if you are sensitive to needles, you may choose from many other options including Acupressure, Chinese Herbs, Moxibustion, Cupping and Nutritional Supplements.

Cupping

Cupping is an old technique performed in both China and the West. The process traditionally uses glass jars, heated to create a vacuum, and placed on the upper back to relieve acute illnesses such as colds and fevers.  Cupping can also be done all over the body to invigorate the flow of Qi and to relieve tension and pain. It is often used for treating upper and lower back ache, chronic nausea & vomiting, sciatica, frozen shoulder and more.

If cupping is deemed necessary for your condition, it is generally included in an private acupuncture visit. A patient can also come in separately for a cupping treatment if he/she wishes.