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Acupuncture

 

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used forms of medicine in the world. Originating in China more than 2,500 years ago, acupuncture is currently one of the most thoroughly researched, practiced, and respected forms of complementary medicine available anywhere.

 

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, your overall health is determined by the quality of the Qi (energy) flow through the natural pathways of your body (meridians). Acupuncture uses a variety of techniques, including placing very thin sterile needles into specific points on the body, to stimulate and improve your Qi flow.

 

What is it Good for?

 

  •     Pain reduction

  •     Stress and tension relief

  •     Increased energy levels

  •     Improving digestion

  •     Reduced cravings and relief from bad habits and addictions

  •     Greater sense of overall health and well-being

 
How Does it Work?
 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

​​Fear of Needles?

Many of us cringe at the thought of getting stuck with a needle. We think, “How in the world can acupuncture feel good?” Well, it really does. The picture to the right shows that about 18 acupuncture needles can fit into one hypodermic needle, the type of needle that is used when blood is drawn, or when getting a flu shot. Needless to say, acupuncture needles have a very, very small diameter. The diameter measures about the size of a hair follicle. That means that patients hardly notice when needles are inserted. However, when patients feel something, they usually describe it as either dull and achy, itchy, tingly, or energetic. Patients new to acupuncture are surprised at how relaxing it is, and how effective it is for pain relief, stress relief, and an overall sense of well-being. It is so relaxing that most people even fall asleep during treatment!

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Still Uncomfortable with Needles?

Fortunately, there are many other options that do not involve needles. Look under WAYS WE TREAT tab. These other Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques may also compliment acupuncture needle treatments. We actually consider acupuncture the most invasive of our approaches...relatively minor compared to going under the knife in surgery or a syringe like the picture above. Proper diet, rest, and exercise should be enough to maintain ones health, but if these are not in good shape in the first place, your body is not getting what it needs. It takes intervention to get things in order if you are already experiencing pain or illness that is taxing your body. If you are open to needles, know this: we treat with the fewest needles possible. We have helped many patients with back pain get 100% relief with 2 needles placed in the hand. Depending on the cause of disease, acupuncture may not even be necessary: the more appropriate medicine may be combining CHINESE HERBALS with ACUPRESSURE & TUI NA and diet modification. This is a real Holistic medicine. Thousands of years in tradition.

In the US, acupuncture is practiced by these providers:

 

Licensed Acupuncturists (LAc is the usual abbreviation for this licensing.  Also AP for Acupuncture Physicians in Florida.)  The typical training is a master’s level program with 3000 hours and supervised practice.  Board exams are given in point location, medical theory, body work and clean needle technique.

 

Physicians (MD or DO) and Chiropractors (DC) with 200-300 hours of additional training in acupuncture techniques and medical theory.

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