Acupuncture

The practice of acupuncture is based on the premise that bodily functions are regulated by energy that flows through the body. It’s a series of procedures involving the stimulation of anatomical points on the body using a variety of techniques. The most common technique involves penetration of the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands. Acupuncture treatments for certain conditions have been recognized by the United States National Institutes of Health, the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, as well as the World Health Organization. According to a report from the Consensus Development Conference On Acupuncture, this practice is being widely incorporated into treatment plans by thousands of providers and other health practitioners with an estimate of over 3 million Americans using the procedure annually.

When considering acupuncture, our doctor will ask you about:

• What Treatments You Have Tried In The Past
• Eating Habits
• Sleeping Patterns

After the doctor receives this information, you will be asked to remove your clothing from specific areas and lie down on the examination table. At this point, the provider will show you the new, sterile needles that will be utilized for your treatment.

These needles are made of stainless steel, ensuring they won’t be prone to breaking but will still remain flexible. The process will begin, as the needles are placed at various points of your body. Up to 20 unique needles, ranging in size from just under half an inch to as long as five inches may be utilized based on your specific condition. However, fewer are often used during your initial treatment.

Pain is subjective, but most patients report no discomfort from the acupuncture treatment. If for some reason you feel undue pain, notify your doctor immediately in order to ensure proper placement has been utilized or that you have not accidentally moved since initial placement. Typical acupuncture treatments last approximately 40 minutes, however each condition constitutes a custom treatment, meaning times may vary.