What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into precise points on the body by a trained acupuncturist, often with infrared heat or
electrical stimulation applied. Acupuncture originated in ancient China, yet it is now a modern, complementary technique much sought after for pain relief from sports or personal injury, or to relieve other medical conditions.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is based on the theory that pathways of energy, (called qi or chi) run throughout the body. These pathways are known as ‘meridians’. Energy circulates through meridians and nourishes the organs and tissues. Blockages in the flow of this energy can result in pain, inflammation or illness.
The acupuncturist places a series of acupuncture needles along meridians to stimulate a current of the body’s internal qi to flow. Acupuncture restores the movement of energy through the meridians, and thus helps prevent disease and reduce pain.
Benefits of Acupuncture
Most often, patients turn to acupuncture for relief from musculoskeletal pain and injury. Acupuncture for back pain, whiplash and joint problems are common treatments. One of the main benefits of acupuncture is to help prevent illness and dysfunction. Many people receive regular acupuncture treatment to tonify overall good health.
Acupuncture can improve digestion and sleep, increase relaxation and reduce stress. Clinical studies show that acupuncture affects the nervous system, hormonal balance, immunity to illness, cardiovascular health and digestive function.
What Can I Expect?
Chinese medicine is holistic in that it addresses the root cause of health problems. We assess an individual treatment protocol for each patient, in order to maximize the benefits of acupuncture. Your acupuncture treatment is customized according to your health history, dietary issues, pulse readings, current physical symptoms and emotional state.
Treatment consists of fine, single-use needles inserted shallowly into the skin along specific meridians. The acupuncturist uses rubbing alcohol to prevent any infection at the insertion points. You rest quietly for 20-30 minutes with the needles inserted, as they restore the flow of energy throughout your body. Often patients fall asleep or feel very relaxed, mentally and physically. The acupuncturist then extracts the needles. The acupuncturist may augment your treatment with nutritional suggestions, Chinese herbal remedies and homeopathics.
Acupuncture and Sports Injury
Sports injuries often involve a sprain and strain of a joint and surrounding tissues. A sprain involves the ligament and strain involves muscle or tendon. A sports injury immediately causes inflammation and pain, redness or bruising on the skin, and reduced movement of the joint. The first treatment for an acute injury is known as R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation). In addition, many athletes have found acupuncture to help reduce inflammation and speed healing of an injury.
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