What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a method of restoring energy balance to promote healing and improve body functions. It works by inserting fine filiform needles at precise points on the body. Heat is often applied over acupuncture points or “moxibustion”is sometimes used to strengthen the blood.

How does it work?
Meridians, channels of energy, run like energy currents through the body. When blockage in one part of a channel occurs, it impedes the flow in others. Acupuncture’s scientific rationale is that inserting needles at acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system releasing chemicals which either alleviate pain or affect the body’s internal regulating system.

Do the needles hurt?
Most people feel only minimal discomfort; some feel no pain at all. After the needles have been inserted, one may feel a sensation of heaviness or tingling.

Is there risk of infections?
Since needles are disposable, or are sterilized just like surgical instruments are, there is no risk of infections.

Are there side effects?
Infrequently. At times, after acupuncture treatment is started an individual’s symptoms can intensify for a short time. Most often, a period of relaxation is experienced.

How many treatments are needed?
This varies with the individual and is dependent on whether the patient has an acute condition, an enduring or difficult problem, or is treated for health maintenance. The number of treatments varies from as many as one or two a week for several months to as many as four years.