Acupuncture typically involves the insertion of very fine, hair thin needles into points on the body to stimulate and release a healthy flow of energy. Acupuncture restores balance to the body, thus reducing pain and supporting recovery from illness.

In China, acupuncture has been used to treat a wide range of illnesses and pain condition for thousands of years. In the West, acupuncture has been extensively researched, and is known to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including headache, back pain, anxiety, depression, fatigue, menstrual irregularities, TMJ, digestive disorders and skin conditions. It is effective on such a wide range of concerns because it supports the body in self-healing, while also releasing endorphins, supporting a healthy immune system, and reducing the negative effects of a stressful lifestyle.

Today, needles used in acupuncture treatment are sterile and disposable. They are inserted shallowly and often cause no discomfort on insertion. Children and adolescents can be successfully treated with acupuncture.

After your acupuncturist does the initial intake, a typical treatment lasts about 45 minutes. An acupuncture treatment can induce pleasant sensations of relaxation, enhanced awareness, and varying sensations from a feeling of heaviness to a pleasant tingling. For children, needle retention is brief, and/or other “non-insertive” techniques can be used to tap on and stimulate the points.

The number of acupuncture treatments required depends on the duration, severity and nature of your problem. An acute condition may require only a single treatment. A series of 5 to 15 treatments may be necessary for many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may need many treatments and long-term maintenance.