Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of healing in the world. Beginning in China over 5,000 years ago it still remains a primary source of medical treatment in Asia. Presently in the United States there are over 4,000 licensed acupuncturists serving patients for a wide variety of conditions. Acupuncture involves the placement of small thin needles into various parts of the body which somehow stimulate the body’s natural protective and pain fighting systems.

The intent is to promote health and alleviate pain and suffering. Studies have shown that brain activity is increased, the immune system is boosted and pain fighting endorphins (natural occurring morphine) and peptides are released during acupuncture. Traditional Western medicine tends to diagnose and treat the effect the disease has on the body. The Eastern acupuncturist acts upon the energy that creates the disease state.

The effectiveness of acupuncture has been proven through various studies from the National Institutes of Health, the World Health Organization and others. The acupuncturist provides a complete physical examination which may also include diagnostic procedures such as radiology and clinical laboratory services. The World Health Organization has identified over 43 common disorders that acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating.

These disorders include:

• Gastrointestinal Disorders; food allergies, peptic ulcers, chronic diarrhea, constipation, gastritis.
• Urogenital Disorders; stress incontinence, urinary tract infections, sexual dysfunction.
• Respiratory Disorders; emphysema, sinusitis, asthma, allergies, bronchitis.
• Disorders of the Bone, Muscles, Joints, Nervous System; arthritis, migraine headaches, neuralgia, low back pain, neck and shoulder pain.
• Circulatory Disorders; hypertension, angina pectoris, arteriosclerosis, anemia.
• Emotional and Psychological Disorders; depression and anxiety.
• Addictions; alcohol, nicotine, drug addition.
• Ear, Nose and Throat disorders.

FAQ’s 

Is Acupuncture Safe?
When acupuncture is provided by a licensed comprehensively trained acupuncturist if is considered extremely safe. It is free of adverse or addictive side effects. Quite often a sense of relaxation and well-being occurs during and after treatments. The instruments used to penetrate the skin are pre-sterilized and disposable after single use, or sterilized in an autoclave as surgical and dental instruments are, after each use.  

Is Acupuncture Painful?
Acupuncture is less painful than receiving an injection. The needles used do not cause much discomfort and are inserted without causing damage to the skin. The sensation associated with acupuncture typically lasts for 10-15 seconds. Most people describe the sensation as painless or less painful than plucking out a hair. The needles used are very thin and do not draw blood and are solid not hollow. The needles are small enough that 10-12 acupuncture needles can fit into one ordinary hypodermic needle such as one used to draw blood.

Where are the needles placed?
The trained acupuncturist has studied the different areas that would be effective in treating the symptoms explained to the doctor. Each treatment may involve several areas of the body including the back, ears, feet and neck or face.  

How do I find a quality provider?
You should seek a practitioner who has been comprehensively trained and licensed by the state. You should also consider one that has undergone extensive review by a credentialing review process to insure current licensure and liability insurance.