What is acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture is a component of the Traditional Chinese Medicine, which has evolved into a complete, holistic medical system. Practitioners of Acupuncture use extremely fine needles to manipulate the flow of natural energy in the body, promoting natural healing using a non-invasive, pain-free method.

Acupuncture is based on the concept of meridians, the pathways throughout our bodies where energy travels. Our meridians can become blocked or out-of-balance from many factors such as; illness, physical and emotional stress, trauma, environmental factors, weather, diet, lack of exercise and overexertion. Needling specific acupuncture points unblocks the meridians and restores a healthy flow of energy and biochemical balance. The effect is that the body is stimulated to naturally heal itself.

Western science continues to research the mechanisms of action involved in acupuncture. Research has been able to measure the conduction of electromagnetic signals which start the flow of pain-killing biochemicals, such as endorphins, and immune system cells to specific areas of the body that are injured or diseased. Additionally, opioids are released to the central nervous system during an acupuncture treatment, helping to reduce pain. Studies have also shown that acupuncture changes brain chemistry by changing the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones, affecting parts of the immune and central nervous system.

Is acupuncture painful?
Acupuncture needles are extremely fine and flexible, similar to a cat’s whisker. Most people feel no pain at all; others may feel a brief moment of discomfort. The sensation of the needle is different for everyone. After the needle is inserted, people describe a tingling, warmth, vague numbness, heaviness or even a sensation of energy.

Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, non-invasive and drug-free therapy yielding no side effects except feelings of relaxation and well-being. The needles used are sterile, single-use disposable needles.