How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is based on the idea that health is determined by a balanced flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”), or energy. Qi is circulated through the body via energy pathways called meridians. These meridians through which Qi flows are linked to internal organ systems. Acupuncture addresses illness by finding and repairing low levels and blockages of Qi in the body’s meridians.

Special needles are inserted into the acupoints, which are located just below the skin. Inserting these needles helps correct the flow of energy within the body, relieving pain and

Will I get better?

Many conditions are alleviated very rapidly by acupuncture. However, conditions that have arisen over many years require a longer course of treatment.

As in any form of healing, the patient’s attitude affects the outcome of a course of treatment. Patients are always encouraged to participate in their healing process. In some cases, dietary, exercise or lifestyle changes or herbs may be recommended.

Is acupuncture painful?

Acupuncture rarely causes any pain. Acupuncture needles are very fine and flexible, about the diameter of a human hair. In most cases, insertion is performed without discomfort.

A patient may experience a sense of heaviness or electricity in the area of insertion. Most patients find the treatments very relaxing and many fall asleep during treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about what to expect during treatment please ask Richard.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture needles are sterile, single use and disposed of after treatment. The National Institute of Health, in its 1997 Consensus Development Conference, declaired “One of the advantages of acupuncture is that the incidence of adverse effects is substantially lower than that of many drugs or other accepted medical procedures used for the same conditions.”

Modern research and international health organizations agree that acupuncture is a safe and highly effective treatment for many conditions. The World Health Organization recognizes acpuncture as effective for several ailments, including:

Pain, such as low back, hip, shoulder or neck pain, arthritis, headache and neuralgia.

Digestive difficulties, such as food allergies, peptic ulcer, chronic diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastrointestinal weakness and gastritis.

Bladder disorders, including incontinence and urinary tract infection.

Menstrual issues, such as irregular, heavy or painful menstruation, and pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).

Breathing problems, such as asthma, bronchitis, allergies, and sinusitis.

Circulatory problems, such as hypertension, angina pectoris, angina pectoris, arteriosclerosis, and anemia.

Emotional issues, including stress, depression, insomnia, and anxiety.

Supportive therapy, for many chronic conditions and to reduce nausea, vomiting and pain post-operatively or from chemotherapy.