What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a 3000-year-old component of Chinese medicine. It involves inserting very thin needles through a person’s skin at specific points on the body, to various depths, to promote the body’s self-healing power and self-regulating function and bring health back to the patient.   

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture may improve the body’s functions and promote the natural self-healing process by stimulating specific anatomic sites, commonly referred to as acupuncture points, or acupoints.  The most common method used to stimulate acupoints is the insertion of fine, sterile needles into the skin.  Pressure, heat, or electrical stimulation may further enhance the effects.  Other acupoint stimulation techniques include: tuina (massage), moxibustion (heat therapy), cupping, and the application of topical herbal medicines.

​Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on an ancient philosophy that describes the universe, and the body, in terms of two opposing forces: Yin and Yang.  When these forces are in balance, the body is healthy.  Energy, called "Qi" (pronounced "chee") flows along specific pathways, called meridians, throughout the body.  This constant flow of energy keeps the Yin and Yang forces balanced.  However, if the flow of energy gets blocked, like water getting stuck behind a dam, the disruption can lead to pain, lack of function, or illness.  Acupuncture therapy can release blocked Qi in the body and stimulate function, evoking the body’s natural healing response through various physiological systems.  Modern research has demonstrated acupuncture’s effects on the nervous system, endocrine and immune systems, cardiovascular system, and digestive system.  By stimulating the body’s various systems, acupuncture can help to resolve pain, and improve sleep, digestive function, and sense of well-being.