Traditional Acupuncture is a healing art that originated in China over three

thousand years ago.  It has proven effective for thousands of years in helping to create good health, vitality, balance, longevity and alleviation of stress.  It is based on natural laws that describe the movement of life energy called “qi” (pronounced “chee”) which is present in nature as well as in the body.  Qi flows in precise pathways in the body called meridians.  When the qi in the body is balanced and flows smoothly through the meridians, we are healthy and thriving.  When the qi is not balanced, we experience distress or dis-ease.

Acupuncture needles are nothing like the needles you may be used to in Western medicine.  They are small, about the width of two human hairs, and cannot be used to inject medication or draw blood from a vessel.  The needles are sterilized, individually packaged, and disposed of after each use.  During treatment, most needles are inserted just beneath the skin.  Sometimes they are in for just a few seconds, sometimes for 15-20 minutes.  The sensations vary from person to person, and most people report little or no discomfort.

Plan to spend two hours during your initial visit.  During this time your concerns and the benefits you hope to attain will be discussed.  Your health and personal history will be reviewed and a physical exam unique to Chinese medicine will be conducted.  Needles may or may not be used during this first visit

Subsequent visits usually last an hour, and are scheduled weekly for about six treatments.  After that time, there is an evaluation of what shifts have occurred, if treatment can continue to serve you and if treatments can then be spaced out.

Responses to treatment are as individual as the people involved.  Some feel an overwhelming sense of relief after only one treatment.  Often, however, it takes time for the body to heal.

You may not notice any difference in the beginning, but rest assured the positive effects of treatment are building up in your body.  You may notice a gradual improvement, or after a number of sessions, suddenly feel stronger, healthier, and more open to the joy in your life.  Your progress will be monitored carefully, and you may learn of ways to enhance the effects of your treatment.

Absolutely!  You can and should continue to work with your physician, acupuncture compliments Western medicine, it does not replace it.  As a matter of fact, it is important to stay in touch with your doctor, since some patients find that with treatment their need for some medications may diminish.  If this proves true for you, you will need to work closely with your doctor to safely adjust your medication dosages as your health improves.

Traditional five-element acupuncture functions on the level of the body, mind, and spirit.  It can be helpful to those with a variety of health concerns, but you need not have a physical illness to experience the benefits of acupuncture treatment.  Many people who have experienced regular acupuncture treatment report that they:

[      Are sick less often, and recover from illness more quickly,

[      Have increased stamina and vitality,

[      Have become more active partners in their health care,

[      Have richer, more harmonious relationships.