What is Acupuncture?  

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice where the thinnest filiform needles are inserted into the skin at specific points to effect a healing reaction. The premise of acupuncture is that Qi, the vital force, circulates throughout the body in meridians, energetic pathways. Disease, illness, pain, etc. are a disruption of the proper flow of vital force. By palpating the body, asking the patient key questions, observing signs and symptoms, the trained Acupuncturist can discern the appropriate positions to inset needles and restore balance to the system.

A popular style of Chinese Acupuncture has recently been co-opted by untrained and non-licensed people who call it, “Dry Needling”.  This style of Acupuncture is best translated from Chinese into English as “Orthopedic Acupuncture” and closely follows the concept of  Trigger Point Therapy, releasing Trigger Points in muscles. Orthopedic Acupuncture is a style of needling that incorporates a stronger stimulation and manipulation and is highly effective in treating chronic and acute muskulo-skeletal pain. It is important to only receive acupuncture treatment from formally trained, licensed and certified practitioners.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

“Decoding an Ancient Therapy High-Tech Tools Show How Acupuncture Works in Treating Arthritis, Back Pain, Other Ills”    The Wall Street Journal

“Acupuncture Provides True Pain Relief in Study”  The New York Times

“How to  Know When Acupuncture is Working”   The Huffington Post

“7 Acupuncture Side Effects That Are Normal”   Acutake Health.com

“A Close-Up Look at Acupuncture Treatments to Manage Pain”  ABC.COM