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What is Acupuncture?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), as well as Naturopathic Medicine, is an approach to healing developed over 3,000 years ago, based upon classical Chinese medical texts. Treatment is centered on the individual rather than on the disease. In TCM, the mental, emotional and physical are interrelated to create a picture of the whole person.

Disease is viewed as a disharmony and treatment directed at creating balance. Diagnosis is made through visual inspection, interview, pulses and palpation. Acupuncturists use very fine, sterile needles and insert them into the body at specific locations. There may be a slight tingling or aching sensation when the needles are in place.

An acupuncture treatment may also include:

Tui Na- A Chinese form of massage to promote and stimulate Qi (energy) and blood.

Cupping - the use of glass cups which forms a suction on the skin to promote blood flow

Electro-Acupuncture - electrically stimulating points to promote the movement of Qi

Infrared Heat Therapy- to increase metabolism, blood flow and relax muscles.

How does acupuncture work?

Qi is best described as ‘life energy.’

It is based on our genetic makeup, the food we eat, the air we breathe and our environment. TCM is based on harmonizing the flow of Qi which is constantly moving throughout the body in pathways called meridians.

Disease and pain occur when Qi is blocked or deficient. Traumatic injury causes swelling, bleeding or muscle spasm to cause Qi to stop flowing. Physical and emotional stress and poor nutrition can reduce the amount of Qi. The body may not have enough Qi to heal itself or guard against disease. Acupuncture moves and tonifies Qi.