Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. Originating in China more than 2,000 years ago, acupuncture became widely known in the United States in 1971 when New York Times reporter James Reston wrote about how doctors in Beijing, China, used needles to ease his abdominal pain after surgery.

Research shows this to be beneficial in treating a variety of health conditions. Works well with Chiropractic.

Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force — known as qi or chi (CHEE) — believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, practitioners believe that your energy flow will re-balance.

In contrast, many Western practitioners view the needle points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. Some believe that this stimulation boosts your body’s natural painkillers.

Each person who performs this procedure has a unique style, often blending aspects of Eastern and Western approaches to medicine. To determine the type of treatment that will help you the most, your practitioner may ask you about your symptoms, behaviors and lifestyle. He or she may also closely examine the parts of your body that are painful.

Treatment points are situated in all areas of the body. Sometimes the appropriate points are far removed from the area of your pain. Your practitioner will tell you the general site of the planned treatment and whether you need to remove any clothing. A gown, towel or sheet will be provided. You lie on a padded table for the treatment.

Acupuncture may be used for symptomatic relief of a variety of diseases and conditions, including:

1. Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
2. Fibromyalgia/Chronic Pain
3. Headaches
4. Labor pain
5. Low back pain
6. Menstrual cramps
7. Migraines
8. Osteoarthritis
9. Dental pain
10. Tennis elbow

For more detailed information on this therapy, please click here.