Acupuncture is a healing modality that dates back over 2,000 years. It is based upon the idea that we have a system of pathways of energy that moves through the body. These energy pathways are connected to our physical body. When this flow of energy is running smoothly, we have health and wellness. At times, we develop blockages and imbalances in this energy system from any number of physical and/or emotional factors. When these blockages or imbalances occur, we present with symptoms.

Once the acupuncturist determines where these blockages are, hair-thin sterile disposable needles are inserted at various points along the meridian system and/or specific muscles to help remove the blockages and reestablish the free flow of energy. The needles are then typically left in the body for 20-45 minutes.

Acupuncture also has a unique approach to healing in that treatments are tailored to the individual and their level of imbalance. The focus is not on treating a disease but rather how symptoms manifest in a particular person, so that healing can occur at all levels of the body, mind and spirit.

Most patients find that acupuncture treatments are comfortable and enjoyable. The thin stainless steel disposable needles rarely cause discomfort, and generally result in a feeling of peacefulness and relaxation. In our clinic, it is very common for patients to fall asleep during treatment. Some people feel energized after the treatment, while others may wish to rest. Many notice both symptoms and energy improving immediately after or in the days following treatment.

During your first visit with us, we have a consultation with you and go over your current health concerns as well as your pertinent health history. This gives you the opportunity to express any concerns or questions you may have. There is a thorough traditional diagnosis, which consists of looking at the tongue, taking your pulse, and asking specific questions to get to the root of your current imbalance. After this, we proceed to the treatment area where you are needled by the acupuncturist. A typical treatment can last from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the condition being treated.

It is important however to remember that acupuncture is a process, and one which usually takes multiple treatments to help most conditions. This could be anywhere from 1-12 treatments depending on your constitution and the conditions being treated, at an interval of 1-3 visits per week in most cases. In general, acute conditions are quicker to treat than long-standing chronic conditions. A treatment plan is recommended to you during the initial intake. On subsequent visits, we do a quick check-in to see how you've been feeling since the previous treatment, and if anything new has come up which needs to be addressed. We always check your tongue and pulse for changes. This gives us valuable information as to how you are responding to treatments.

• It is good to have something to eat about an hour before your treatment.

• Wear comfortable clothes that allow access to areas below the elbows and knees.

• We ask that you refrain from wearing any perfumes or scented oils within the clinic. Many patients, including pregnant women and those undergoing radiation and chemotherapy are very sensitive to fragrances.

• Silence is golden! Keep in mind that there will be others in the rooms nearby receiving treatments. Please turn your cell phones off when entering the clinic and be respectful of those around you who have come to relax and renew as you have.

• If possible, set aside time after your treatment to rest. We do not recommend heading straight to the gym after acupuncture.

Acupuncture treats a wide range of health conditions. It has been recognized as a viable healing modality for over 40 conditions by the World Health Organization(WHO). These conditions include but are not limited to the following:

• Headaches and Migraines

• Facial Pain (TMJ)

• Neck Pain

• Upper Back Pain

• Low Back Pain

• Knee Pain

• Shoulder Pain

• Lower/Upper Extremitity

• Sciatica

• Tennis/Golfer's Elbow

• Shin Splints

• Tendonitis

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Osteoarthritis

• Plantar Fasciitis

• Heel and Bone Spurs

• Urinary Dysfunction

• Allergies

• Sinusits

• Rhinitis

• Asthma

• Bronchitis

• Common Cold

• Constipation

• Diarrhea

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Acid Reflux / GERD

• Amenorrhea / Dysmenorrhea

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• Irregular Menses

• Infertility

• Anxiety / Stress

• Depression

• Fibromyalgia

• Chronic Fatigue

• Vertigo / Dizziness

• Insomnia

• High/Low Blood Pressure

• Substance Abuse

• Smoking Cessation

• Tinnitus / Meniere's Disease

• Bell's Palsy

• Skin Conditions

• Urinary Dysfunction