Acupuncture is the stimulation, by insertion of needles, of specific points on the body which have the ability to alter various biochemical and physiological conditions. Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain-relieving neurohormones. Acupuncture affects the functioning of the hormonal system, promotes a decrease in inflammation, increased circulation and relief from pain.?

Using acupuncture can shorten the overall amount of treatment a client needs, keeping them happier and leading to a steady “word of mouth” referral process for your practice. Practitioners find they are able to treat certain pain and dysfunctions of the body that they weren’t able to treat before they started using acupuncture. Along with helping pain, acupuncture lets you help clients’ energy and stress too. Practitioners tell us adding acupuncture to their practice has increased their job satisfaction.

This is the most common question asked about acupuncture, since many people associate needles with pain. Acupuncture needles are a similar thickness to a dog’s whisker, and are virtually painless when inserted.
The practitioner will insert the needle to the appropriate depth. You will then usually feel a very unique sensation that can vary from tingling, to heaviness, to warmth, or even nothing at all. Each person’s experience is different. Should you experience any discomfort, inform your practitioner, and they will adjust the needles accordingly. All needles are sterilized and disposable.?

In general, there are two categories of health concerns that acupuncture can treat: simple problems (acute) and more complex ones (chronic). More complex issues will sometimes require stronger tools in addition to acupuncture like herb therapy.