Acupuncture 

Think of acupuncture as your partner in all things health and wellness.

If you are experiencing physical or emotional distress, or just want to be your most healthy self, acupuncture is the perfect way to elevate and nourish your mind and body.  It is a very safe and effective medical system that has been used to diagnose, treat and prevent illness for thousands of years. It enhances recuperative powers, and strengthens the immune system. Research shows the healing effects on pain and metabolic illness may be achieved through acupuncture’s ability to increase blood and lymph circulation and stimulate the release of neurotransmitters like endorphins and other natural opioids. New studies show is works as well as medications, or better.

A 2019 study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine showed acupuncture to be more effective than painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants and physical therapy for relieving back and neck pain in both short- and long-term cases.  Acupuncture also has a positive effect on brain chemistry and the regulation of the hypothalamus and pituitary glands which are responsible for the smooth balance of hormonal activity in the body. The benefits of acupuncture are holistic and extensive - enhanced relaxation, increased energy and healing relief from both acute and chronic health and pain issues. 

Conditions Treated

The National Institute of Health (NIH) and World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledge the benefits of acupuncture as a safe, effective and natural way to treat a wide range of pain and illness. Some people use acupuncture for regular relaxation and health ’tune-ups’  Acupuncture is all about empowering you in whatever journey you are on. Whether it be any kind of musculoskeletal pain (neck, back, joint, arthritis, carpal tunnel, accident recovery, etc), headaches, migraines, gastrointestinal disorders, IBS, acid reflux, sinusitis, allergy, fertility (males & females), pregnancy, hormonal issues, menopausal issues, autoimmunity, genetic disorders, endocrine disorders, thyroid, adrenal, anxiety, depression, mood swings, stress, anti-aging, facial rejuvenation, fatigue, sleep issues - or you just want a ’tune-up’ and need a deeply relaxing ‘acu-nap’. Acupuncture will help you feel your best. 

8 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Acupuncture Treatment

To a newcomer acupuncture can be a little intimidating, but the treatments are very relaxing, deeply restorative and peaceful. While no special preparation is required before acupuncture therapy, here are 8 things you can do to get the most out of your acupuncture treatment.

1. Wear (or bring) loose fitting comfortable clothes. Tight or uncomfortable clothes won’t just be a distraction, but can actually block the circulation acupuncture induces, and make some points difficult to reach. 

2. Before your appointment or when you arrive please use the toilet even if you think you don’t have to, so you  avoid the need to ‘Go’ when relaxing on the table for about 20-30 minutes. Turn off or silence your cell phone, remove fitness trackers and most large jewelry. 

3. Answer interview and intake questions thoroughly. Acupuncture takes a holistic approach, and everything from your mood, your digestion, to even the weather can be a vital factor of your overall health. You may have your pulse taken or your tongue looked at, which can provide valuable information about how your body is functioning. This holistic overview can help develop a very personalized and successful treatment plan. 

4. Make sure you’re not hungry or dehydrated going into treatment. A normal light meal or snack is best within a few hours before acupuncture. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, sugar, and elective or non-essential medications for at least a few hours before and after treatment.  The less influencing factors you have in your system, the better.  

5. Expect to Relax. People are often surprised how little they feel both at insertion and after the tiny flexible needles are in place. Most people find acupuncture to be the most relaxing part of their week, and many see  instant stress and symptom relief even at the first visit. This is why it is not uncommon for patients to take a nap while on the table. Many people come in for "acu-naps" long after all health problems are resolved, just for the incredible "mini-vacation” rejuvenation. 

6. To get the most benefit after acupuncture, protect yourself inside and out. Your body needs some time to relax and integrate the shifts that happen during and after treatment and that may take a couple days. Some people feel dramatic improvements right after a treatment, but its still best take it a easy for the rest of the day.  According to eastern medicine, as acupuncture reduces inflammation you may temporarily become more vulnerable to "external pathogens” like wind and cold - so keep warm and eat warm foods following treatment.

7. Ask your practitioner for lifestyle tips to enhance the healing effects of your treatment, and how often you should come in for best results. Some issues respond best to weekly treatments, acute situations may require a few treatments within a week, and others only need monthly or occasional “tune-ups” 

8. Acupunture treatment is often the key to achieving optimal health, and most people wish they had tried it sooner.  When you see what it can do for you, be sure to tell others - it can save a lot of time, money and needless suffering. In the hands of a skilled practitioner, acupuncture can help bring true healing for almost every health condition.