Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture

Several thousand years ago, East Asian practitioners observed that disease and dysfunction result from imbalances of the balancing forces yin and yang within people. These imbalances disrupt the movement of the body's vital energy (qi) which is said to flow along pathways called meridians. Acupuncture works to restore the balanced flow of qi in the body. A more contemporary understanding of how acupuncture works has to do with the stimulaton of the nervous system in general and the stimulation of the specific area of the needle insertion.  The insertion of acupuncture needles creates bio-chemical changes; at the needle sites directly affecting the specific area of treatment, and creates changes throughout the system to regulate organ and system function, improve well-being, promote healing and reduce pain.

What Does Acupuncture Feel Like

Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will feel like hypodermic injections at the doctor’s office. They won't.Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that you will hardly feel when we insert them. When the needles are gently stimulated, they may produce a unique sensation that Oriental medicine calls de qi. Patients often describe de qi as a heavy, achy pressure, or spreading, traveling feeling. You may also feel an "electrical" sensation moving down the meridian pathways, though this is less common. Most patients find these acupuncture sensations deeply satisfying and leave the treatment feeling relaxed both mentally and physically.

Is Acupuncture Safe

Yes. Acupuncture is used by millions of Americans every year. Acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education, including detailed study of human anatomy and training in Clean Needle Technique. We have passed comprehensive national board examinations administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and we are licensed by New York State. We use pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles to ensure your complete safety.

What Is Trigger Point Acupuncture

Electro-acupuncture is the use of a compact electrical device to provide a continuous, gentle stimulation to specific acupuncture needles. The mild current flowing through the needles affects the specific local area of stimulation to improve the healing of injured or inflamed joints or muscles, and increase the release of pain reducing chemicals within the body. The effects of electro-acupuncture are also systemic, affecting the nervous system to promote balanced function and a sense of well-being.

We use electro-acupuncture when we think that it is indicated to improve the results of the treatment, or if its use has been establshed by research to be effective in the treatment of a specific condition.

How Many Treatments Will I Need

The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more then one treatment is necessary. During your initial visit we will review your current condition and health history, and do a through examination. We will then be able to determine if acupuncture is indicated and develop a treatment plan. The number of treatments needed depends upon the nature, severity and duration of your condition, and your overall state of health. For some acute conditions, you may only need 1-3 treatments. A series of 6-10 treatments may be necessary to resolve a more chronic issue. We will continually monitor your progress during treatments and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Preventative treatments and treatments for general well-being may also be scheduled on an as-needed basis.

Your First Visit

When you arrive for your first acupuncture appointment we will ask you to complete a comprehensive intake form. The acupuncture intake form asks questions about your current state of health, past illnesses, and family history.

After reviewing your intake form, we will discuss your condition, and do an examination. The acupuncture points that are chosen will depend on your condition, but you can expect approximately 20 needles. Once the needles are inserted, you will rest comfortably in the treatment room for 15-20 minutes with the needles in place. Many people find acupuncture treatment deeply relaxing, and it is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep during this time.

What Can Acupuncture Treat

Acupuncture works by activating the body's own healing powers, so it can be beneficial for many health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented many symptoms, diseases, and conditions that have been shown in controlled clinical trials to be effectively treated with acupuncture. Below are some common conditions we treat.

Pain

• Sports and other injuries

• Muscle pain

• Back, neck and shoulder pain

• Leg, ankle and foot pain

• Arm, wrist and hand pain

• Knee pain

• Hip pain

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Tennis Elbow

• Repetitive strain injuries

• Jaw pain (TMJ)

• Dental pain

• Sciatica

• Arthritis

• Tendonitis

• Myofascial pain syndrome

• Headaches and migraines

• Postoperative pain

Digestive Problems & Nausea

Respiratory Complaints

Reproductive Issues

General Wellbeing