Acupuncture
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional therapy founded on the theory of Qi (pronounced "chee"). Qi is an energy believed to regulate all of the body's systems. Acupuncturists use very thin needles to change the flow of Qi and restore health as a result. These needles are inserted at points specific to the problem being treated. The process is painless, although tingling sensations are felt occasionally at the treatment site.
What does it help?
Acupuncture has been shown to benefit a variety of conditions, including those struggling with:
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Arthritis
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Back and neck pain
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Sciatica
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Frequent headaches
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Tight or sore muscles
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Postoperative pain
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Cancer pain
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Urinary incontinence
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Nausea
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Asthma
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Depression
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Quitting smoking
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Infertility
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Carpal tunnel syndrome
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Hot flashes
How does it work?
Qi is believed to follow paths called "meridians." They are invisible highways carrying energy that nourishes and supports every cell in your body. When Qi is balanced and flowing freely, your body is functioning at its best. When Qi is blocked and unbalanced, your body becomes susceptible to disease. We use digital meridian imaging to assess the flow of Qi. This objective test directly measures how well energy flows along your twelve main meridians. Over the course of treatment, we expect those measurements to normalize. Rest assured that this test is non-invasive and entirely painless! We only need access to a few points along your wrists and ankles, where we will attach a small cotton-tipped sensor.
What is it like?
The placement of acupuncture needles is typically painless. They are so thin that you quickly forget that they're even there. Once they are in place, we turn down the lights and let you rest for about 20 minutes. Most patients find the experience very relaxing and use the time to nap.
You can expect an an initial trial of five treatment sessions with a reassessment on the fifth visit. Everyone responds differently, but most patients can expect partial relief after the first few treatments.