Acupuncture is a therapy that was developed in China and other Asian countries.  Fine, sterile needles are inserted at specific locations on the body (acupuncture points).  Diseases and imbalances can be corrected by manipulating the body's vital energy - also known as Qi.  

Can I get acupuncture if I am  taking medication?  What if I am getting other therapy like chiropractic or physical therapy?

Acupuncture is safe with medication.  It does not interact with prescription drugs.  Acupuncture can enhance the effects of chiropractic or PT - some of our patients report that their adjustments hold better and longer when they get acupuncture at the same time.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is virtually painless.  Most people think of hypodermic (the needles that nurses use to give shots) when they hear 'needles'.  But in fact, you can probably fit 5 acupuncture needles inside the hole of a hypodermic needle!  A guide tube is used during insertion to reduce the puncture.  You may feel a tiny pinch when the needle is inserted, but most often you do not feel anything.

How long do the needles stay in? 

It depends upon the nature of your condition, the severity, and your age.  Generally they are retained for 10-30 minutes.

What if I am afraid of needles?

If you are afraid of needles, please let the acupuncturist know!  Believe it or not, many people are scared to try acupuncture.  Cindy works well with needle-phobic patients.  She walks you through and makes sure you are comfortable every step of the way.  We have helped many people overcome this fear!

How mant treatments will I need?

Again, this depends on the nature of your condition, and on how long you have had the condition.  A long-term, chronic ailment will require more treatment than a minor sprain.  Someone coming in for a head cold might only need 1 to 3 treatments while another person who suffered an auto accident may very well require months of treatment.  Chronic disease sufferers may reduce treatment frequency once they get stable, and then come in periodically for 'tune-ups' or when they are flaring up.

Do I have to be 'sick' or have a disorder to benefit from acupuncture?

Absolutely not!  It is recommended that all people get an acupuncture seasonal 'tune-up' to stay in harmony with the changing seasons.  We also offer 'wellness' treatments and sessions to de-stress (which promotes health)!

HOW ACUPUNCTURE WORKS: an Eastern and Western perspective

Just as you have networks of vessels in your circulatory system and nervous systems in which your blood flows and your nervous impulses travel,  you have an invisible energetic network in which your qi flows.  The vessels which qi flows through are known as meridians or channels. Meridians are named after the energetic organ system from which they originate.  Qi flows through the meridians, bringing this vital energy to all tissues and cells in your body.  When the flow of qi is disrupted, either because there is a lack of qi being produced, a trauma, poor lifestyle habits (smoking, overworking, bad diet, not resting/sleeping, etc.), or an external pathogen (virus, cold, heat, etc.)  disease or pain results.  By restoring the flow of qi, the body is able to get back into balance and health is restored.