What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that treats diseases naturally by inserting thin needles into the body at specialized points. The needles activates the Qi (energy) within the meridian system of the body. 

What is Qi?
It is an energy, like wind, that is within (and along) our body.  It has many duties such as aiding the movement of blood, energizes, vitalizes, helps the immune system and gives us warmth and life.

Is Acupuncture painful?
The needles are very thin and flexible.  A patient usually experiences nothing at all, to a little prick (similar to an ant bite) at most if the insertion is done properly.  Most patients are scared at first because of past experiences with needles in conventional medicine, but Acupuncture is nothing like that.  Once the first needle is in, most people relax because they realize the experience is completely different and even enjoyable.

How does Acupuncture work?

Once the needles are inserted into the body, the brain and the Qi within the meridians are activated.  This allows the Qi to flow and create a healing process.  Extensive medical research has proven that acupuncture creates neurochemical and hormonal changes.  This means that muscular, vascular and skin changes with increasing circulation, decreased inflammation, relief from pain and muscle spasms, and an increase in T-cell count to stimulate the immune system occurs during the treatment.

What should I expect at an initial Acupuncture session?
At the initial visit, you will be asked to fill out a health intake form.  The Acupuncturist will confidentially talk to you about your problem and help you with a solution plan.  The Acupuncturist will examine you using: pulse, tongue and palpation techniques if needed.  Acupuncture treatments are usually given following the examination on the same day.  Once the needles are inserted, a patient will lay with the needles in for  20-40 minutes. 

How many sessions will I need?
The number of treatments needed vary from person to person depending on the condition and health of the patient.  Generally, acute problems require more frequent treatments, but for a shorter period of time (2-3 times per week for 2 weeks).  Chronic conditions will need a series of treatments for a longer period (1-2 times per week for 8-10 weeks).

What can Acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture and TCM can help treat most illnesses of the body, but this does not mean it can cure everything.  It does mean that it can create the platform that the body needs to get better.  The treatments we provide will activate the healing process and get rid of the problem, but there are times when other modalities are needed in conjunction so that the patient can have a faster recovery.  We will never intentionally withhold any medical information that we feel can aid in this process.  We are also very open to any suggestions that are made by the patient.