What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture gained tremendous popularity as a sustainable alternative treatment for a variety of conditions. It is one of the oldest medical procedures in the world and has origins dating back to the Eastern world, several thousands of years ago. Acupuncture treatment involves inserting fine, sterilized needles into your skin at specific points across your body.
Traditionally, acupuncture was based on ancient beliefs surrounding “life energy”, a concept called “Qi”. Traditional Chinese medicine suggested that Qi flows through pathways, or “Meridians”, across the body. However, studies have increasingly shown that the efficiency of acupuncture is due to the impact on the body’s nervous system. Acupuncture points are found across the body where nerves, muscles, and tissue can be stimulated. Through stimulation of the central nervous system, chemicals are released into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. As a result, blood flow is increased while triggering the release of the body’s natural painkillers.
Acupuncture essentially stimulates the human body’s ability to heal itself naturally and is seen as a growing alternative or supplement for traditional medical treatments with limited side effects. Exciting new research is increasingly being done in the field with very promising results.
Isn’t Acupuncture Painful?
(Not really!)
A common misconception is that acupuncture will be painful given the insertion of needles across the body. The hair-thin needles are inserted, and are generally painless.
The key to acupuncture treatment is to relax! The more relaxed you are, the more your body loosens up, and the more seamless your treatment will be.
As a caveat, certain areas of the body are more sensitive than others (think of the tips of your toes). A chat with our acupuncturist as to which points will be utilized in your treatment should help reduce any fears of sensitive points. In certain cases, those points will need to be utilized, but will be communicated explicitly to you.
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Still unclear about Acupuncture?
We don’t blame you – it can be a bit overwhelming to come across all this information at once. Come meet our acupuncturist to determine the best treatment plan for you.
Book your next appointment and discover a life where pain doesn’t get in your way.