Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a fundamental aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The practice involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points in the body. Acupuncture balances the flow of Qi and promotes overall health and well-being.  

• Reduces inflammation. Inflammation is at the root of many systemic diseases. Acupuncture combats inflammation by regulating several systems in the body; including the immune system. Acupuncture also increases neurotransmitters like dopamine and others that modulate the immune system response.  

• Increases circulation. Acupuncture increase circulation by simulating nitric oxide. Nitric oxide plays an important role in the body by relaxing the inner muscles of the blood vessels causing vasodilation, or increased blood flow. 

• Stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system. Acupuncture has been shown to activate regions of the brain responsible for the regulation of the autonomic nervous system. Bringing you back into your "rest and digest" state. 

• Makes you happy. Acupuncture increases the "feel good" hormones dopamine and serotonin. 

• Decreases pain. By increasing blood flow, decreasing inflammation and regulating the nervous system acupuncture can help reduce systemic pain. It also helps with local pain by releasing trigger points in the muscles and increasing blood flow to a specific area of the body. 

Initially when we say acupuncture the immediate thought is being poked with needles, but there is more to a treatment. Different techniques like cupping, moxibustion, Tui Na, and e-stim may also be a part of this healing modality. Your practitioner will take all this into consideration when developing your treatment plan. 

The World Health Organization (WHO)  and the National Institute of Health (NIH) both recognize acupuncture as effective treatment for a multitude of health conditions.