Acupuncture is an aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine that was developed thousands of years ago and refined over time to its modern use.  Needles are inserted into specific points in the body to influence the flow of Qi and blood and restore balance to the body.  Needles may also be placed along motor points within the muscle to release the muscle and improve function.  It is theorized that acupuncture works by regulation of the nervous system to release pain-relieving endorphins and neurotransmitters.  A number of techniques may be used as part of an acupuncture treatment;  gua sha, moxibustion,  or cupping are often added.

 In ancient times in China, doctors were paid only when the people under their care were in good health.  A sick population reflected badly on the physicians. This is a good way to look at our health; it is better to take care of ourselves and to do everything we can to maintain good health, than to wait until problems have already begun to affect us.  We can do this in many ways – by managing our diet, exercise, and our lifestyles to emphasize health both physically and mentally.

In Chinese medicine, when a person is perfectly healthy, their body is in balance.  If something upsets this balance, pain and disease can result.  When you come in for your first treatment, the health assessment is quite detailed and looks at many different areas to reflect your health as a whole. By looking at your overall health I can see what systems are out of balance.  With this information, the treatment that is appropriate for you in your current condition can be determined.  The goal of your acupuncture session is to return your body to the proper state, preventing poor health. Treatment is not only good for symptoms of pain or discomfort, but also for stress reduction and to help you relax.  Taking care of yourself in all these areas help lead you to a healthy life.