Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient practice that is used as part of the holistic medical system of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The goal of treatment is to help the body return to a state of balance and heal itself. Tiny, sterile acupuncture needles are gently placed in the skin at strategic points along the body to stimulate a specific balancing response.
From the TCM perspective, all disease stems from imbalance and a lack of flow (circulation). The body is seen as a whole network, with each organ influencing the others in different ways. When one system gets out of balance, the whole body suffers.
Acupuncture works by balancing Yin and Yang, harmonizing organ systems, and improving the flow of Qi (“chee”) through paths called “meridians” to reduce symptoms and restore health.
Is Acupuncture safe and effective?
Many research trials have been conducted to determine the safety of acupuncture for a wide range of conditions and circumstances. The results show that overall, acupuncture is a safe therapy for most people, and may offer a less invasive treatment route in certain cases. Researches shows that acupuncture needles are no placebo treatment.
They stimulate sensory nerves in the skin, fascia, and muscle layers that then trigger the body to release chemicals such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. These naturally-produced substances in the body have a wide range of healing benefits.
What are the benefits of Acupuncture?
- Stimulates the nervous system
Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system and helps shift our central nervous system from sympathetic (fight or flight) to parasympathetic (rest and digest). This causes a series of healing effects, such as lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and relaxing the mind and body. - Manages circulation
Body scans show that acupuncture can direct blood flow either to or away from local areas during and after a session, depending on the goal of the treatment. Other studies show acupuncture treatment can promote circulation to areas of the body away from acupuncture points (such as the brain). - Reliefs pain
Acupuncture can significantly reduce pain as well as address the underlying causes or triggers of pain, such as inflammation or poor tissue healing. - Fewer allergies, sinus pressure, and colds
Along with massage and osteopathic care, acupuncture has been shown to help clear inflammation in the nasal passages, sinuses, and lungs to improve symptoms of respiratory issues. Plus, its ability to moderate immune function can help you recover and prevent future onsets of illness.
