Traditional Chinese medicine uses acupuncture to restore the flow of Qi (life energy and nourishment) that follows pathways called meridians through your body.
Illness and disease develop when Qi is blocked or out of balance. Inserting acupuncture needles into precise points along meridians unblocks Qi and supports the body’s natural healing ability.
Acupuncture also can directly increases blood flow and stimulate your nervous system.
Increases Blood Flow
As acupuncture dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow, tissues throughout your body get more of the oxygen and nutrients they need to heal and stay healthy. An increase in blood flow will also carry away toxins from injured or diseased areas.
Stimulates your nervous system
Acupuncture needles activate nerves that stimulate your brain to release endorphins and neurotransmitters. These biochemicals relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve your mood. Acupuncture also improves nerve communication in your brain and boosts your immune system.
What health conditions can improve with acupuncture?
Acupuncture is used in the treatment of many conditions, either on its own or when used together with other therapies such as nutrition and herbal medicine. The World Health Organization supports acupuncture for relieving numerous health problems, including:
- Headaches
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Asthma
- Fatigue
- Fertility Issues
- Fibromyalgia
- Osteoarthritis
- Sinus Issues
- Digestive Issues
- Anxiety/Sleep Issues
- Hormone Imbalance
- Post Surgical Recover
- Facial and dental pain
Acupuncture is especially beneficial for relieving chronic musculoskeletal pain, making it the first line of treatment for many types of persistent pain
What should I expect during an acupuncture session?
Acupuncture needles are different from those used to inject medications. The needles used for acupuncture are solid, flexible, tapered, and as thin as a strand of hair. Their special design allows them to glide easily through your skin and into the targeted acupuncture point.
Most patients don’t feel pain when their acupuncture provider inserts the needle. You may feel sensations such as mild tingling, warmth, heaviness, or a dull ache while the needles are in place, which is the sensation of Qi moving.
Your session lasts 15-60 minutes, depending on your overall health and the illness being treated. You simply relax in a soothing environment while the needles do their job. The most amazing reason to add acupuncture to your treatment protocol…there are no ill side effects!!
