Take Control of Your Health With Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the placement of hair-thin needles at specific points on the body to illicit a healing response. It is one of many therapies developed over 3000 years ago in Asia whose purpose is to restore and maintain a person's health on all levels - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Only pre-sterilized disposable needles and gentle insertion is used.

What Does It Feel Like?

Acupuncture needles are not like the ones used in the doctor's office to draw blood or give shots. They are solid and extremely thin, resembling a cat's whisker or a human hair.

When the needles are inserted, a slight pinch may or may not be felt. While the needles are in, there is no pain. You may experience a vague numbness, tingling, warmth or a sensation of "energy" moving around the needle. This is called "Qi sensation" and is a good indication that the treatment is working. It is common to experience a deep state of relaxation or invigoration and well-being that continues long after the needles have been removed.

Does It Cause Bleeding?

Very rarely, and when it does, a Q-tip or small cotton ball is sufficient to take care of it.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

You can expect to see an improvement in your condition within one to four treatments. An acute condition that has just started to bother you will heal relatively faster than one you have had for years. As you get better, you will need treatment less frequently. 

What Should I Expect At Treatment?

The initial visit usually takes about 2 hours and it is best to wear loose comfortable clothing. During this time, you will be asked to fill out an extensive questionnaire regarding your general health history. (All information is strictly confidential and protected by federal privacy laws)

Some questions may seem unrelated to your condition but are important for building a picture of your whole constitution so that the root (or cause) of your condition can be treated along with the branch ( the noticeable symptoms.)

Once completed and the acupuncture has begun, you will rest with the needles for up to thirty minutes, usually with soothing music in the background. Follow up visits are generally one hour in length.