Acupuncture Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese form of medicine, involving the stimulation of special points in the body, using very fine sterilized disposable needles. No drugs are involved in the treatment, making this a great therapeutic alternative to surgery or pain-relieving drug treatments. It is used to alleviate pain, improve energy, encourage tissue healing, and improve function. For some, acupuncture is a therapeutic modality attempted when traditional or conventional therapy has failed. The Classical approach to acupuncture is based on the body’s equilibrium of energy (Qi), or unblocking of trapped Qi. This is achieved with needle insertion along the ‘meridians’ or ‘channels’ that carry the body’s energy and blood. Western medicine has developed the anatomical approach, in which the acupoints on the skin are located via anatomical landmarks (bones, joint lines). Modern research has confirmed that Acupuncture induces biochemical changes, the release of endorphins and enkephalins, in the body that help with pain gating and management.

Acupuncture has proven effective in the treatment of many conditions, including:
• Low Back Pain
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
• Fibromyalgia
• Osteoarthritis
• Neck and head disorders: whiplash, headaches
• Tendinitis
• Trigeminal Neuralgia
• TMJ dysfunction

A typical treatment lasts 15-30 minutes; in which 2-10 needles are inserted at various acupoints. The disposable stainless steel needles are inserted to various depths based on the underlying tissue and meridian depth; and they do not always elicit sensations, such as a deep, dull ache. The therapist may manipulate the needles (twist, rotate, lift) to maximize the Qi sensation.