How Does Acupuncture Work?

The act of acupuncture is to insert painless needles into the body to stimulate a physiological response (also known as Qi). The needles used to perform acupuncture are as thin as our hair- leaving no mark after taken out. A trained acupuncturist will insert the needle in a specific point to initiate a response. The location may be in a different location than where the ailment lies. For example, if someone has knee pain, there are points on the hand that will help treat the knee. 

The origins of acupuncture date back to an ancient Chinese practice.  There is research showing ancient needles that were used, as well as bamboo and clay cups. Nowadays, glass or plastic cups are more commonly used for cupping. 

When an individual is in prime health, their Qi (Chi) is flowing smoothly through all channels. When a person is experiencing physical or mental health issues, there is a lack or blockage of Qi somewhere in the body. Acupuncture is the practice to help balance Qi. In addition to acupuncture, cupping/herbal therapy/lifestyle of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are all used to help bring the body back to homeostasis. 

The World Health Organization has acknowledged over 200 ailments that acupuncture has successfully treated. A few are listed below:

• Chronic/Acute Pain [Reference 1] [Reference 2]

• Insomnia

• Sprains

• PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)

• Migraines

• Headaches

• Seasonal Allergies

If you are curious about trying out acupuncture for the first time or have any of the ailments, schedule an appointment with me!