What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body. A key component of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain. Increasingly, it is being used for overall wellness, including stress management. Acupuncture is used to treat many different disorders and pain conditions. Common ailments that respond well to acupuncture include tendinitis, arthritis, headaches, allergies, anxiety, stress, chronic pain, respiratory disorders, digestive disorders and even infertility.

How does it work?

Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force known as chi or qi (chee). It is believed to flow through pathways called meridians in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will re-balance. In contrast, many Western practitioners view the acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. Some believe that this stimulation boosts your body’s natural painkillers.

What to expect during an acupuncture session?

There is no preparation needed before an acupuncture session. After doing a short consult with the doctor, you we be shown to a room with comfortable sheets and a heated table. Soft music will be playing and pillows are provided. Acupuncture needles are inserted to various depths at strategic points on your body. The needles are very thin, so insertion usually causes very little discomfort. People often don’t feel them inserted at all. Between 10 and 20 needles are used in a typical treatment. You may feel a mild sensation when a needle reaches the correct depth. In most cases, the needles remain in place 20 minutes while you lie still and relax. There is usually no discomfort when the needles are removed.

If you are interested in trying an acupuncture session give us a call at 515-278-YOST and get scheduled today!