Since most health problems are caused by imbalances in the body, acupuncture can restore and achieve the body’s balance by working with the body’s life force, or Qi (pronounced “chee”). Qi is a dynamic, vital energy which permeates the human body as well as every other living thing. It flows in the body through 14 energy pathways –also known as “meridians” — which run beneath the skin to communicate with the body’s major organs.

Good health is dependent on the abundance, balance, and smooth flow of Qi within the body. When Qi becomes disrupted or blocked, an imbalance in the meridians and their associated organ systems results in illness. Imbalances can occur due to trauma, poor diet, medications, stress, excessive emotions or other conditions.

How does Acupuncture work?

Acupuncture directly affects the body’s Qi, unblocking obstructions and balancing the flow of energy to facilitate the bodies’ own healing process.  It focuses on re-balancing the flow of energy by the gentle insertion of ultra-thin needles at specific points on the body where Qi can be accessed.

There have been many discussions about exactly how acupuncture works according to the Western biomedical model. Current research done in both China and the West shows that acupuncture has a measurable effect on the autonomic nervous system, on vascular and endocrine physiology, and brain chemistry. Another theory suggests that acupuncture stimulates the body to produce narcotic-like substances called endorphins, which relieve pain and increase a person’s sense of relaxation and well-being.

Endorphins are natural opiates which relieve pain and increase a person’s sense of relaxation and well-being. This may be why acupuncture is so frequently used in the treatment of all types of pain, musculoskeletal problems and other disorders such as depression, stress disorders, fibromyalgia and soft tissue injuries.

Another theory suggests that pain impulses are blocked from reaching the spinal cord or brain at various “gates” to these areas. Since a majority of acupuncture points are either connected to (or are located near) neural structures, this suggests that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system.

To the human body, acupuncture needles are a physical stimulus. In Western science, a stimulus is defined as a detectable change in either the external environment or within the body itself. When the body detects change, it produces a response. With modern technology, scientists can now actually begin to “see” the body’s response to acupuncture. For example, using an MRI, researchers have shown that when a needle is inserted at specific acupuncture points on the body, corresponding changes occur in the brain.

What does Acupuncture feel like?

Sterile, disposable acupuncture needles are extremely thin and flexible. While most feel no discomfort during the process, one may feel a slight sensation of heaviness or tingling when Qi is activated. Depending on the diagnosis, needles are left in place for 15 to 45 minutes while the patient relaxes to soft music. Most people find treatments very relaxing and report a deep sense of emotional grounding after acupuncture.

What modalities are used besides needles?

Other methods may be used to enhance the effectiveness of your treatment. These methods include: moxibustion (burning herbs), cupping (suction), auricular therapy (ear acupuncture), Tui Na (massage & manipulation), acupressure, massage, infrared heat and electro-acupuncture.

How many treatments are needed?

The number and frequency of treatments will vary from patient to patient and depends upon the duration, severity and nature of the complaint. In this system of medicine, each treatment builds on the previous one. Once you initiate a healing process, it is important to follow through on treatments. The more consistent you are, the better the likelihood of results as the effects of acupuncture tend to be cumulative.

As part of your first visit, a proposed course of treatment will be discussed. In general, acute conditions of recent onset may only require 3 or 4 treatments, while a series of five to 15 may be needed to resolve chronic conditions. Some degenerative conditions may require ongoing treatments over a long period of time. The ideal approach to illness is to begin treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you seek help, the easier it is to treat.

Most patients see changes within the first 4 treatments, however, results can very from patient to patient due to different physiological reactions to acupuncture and herbs. Your body chemistry, your particular problem, and the length of time that you have been sick all play a part in this. If your response to treatment is not satisfactory, we may need to consider further diagnostic exams, modification of the treatment plan, or referral.

Achieving significant healing requires a commitment on your part to maintain compliance with the suggested treatment plan. To simply maintain good health, you may come in for a “tune-up” when the seasons change or monthly if you have a tendency towards health problems.

What should I expect after treatment?

Your relief may be immediate, delayed for a few hours or even develop after 1 to 3 days. The relief may last for a few hours on the first visit and then last longer with each successive treatment. Or, relief may last from the first treatment until your next visit. It is important to recognize that we are all individuals and response to treatment varies.

In cases of chronic pain, your original pain may improve and then unmask other less obvious pain in the surrounding area. Please report what happened when you return so treatment can be modified accordingly.

Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbs and formulas can substantially aid in healing by synergistically continuing the process made by acupuncture treatments. Made from high-quality organic substances, most herbal formulas consist of four to 15 herbs and treat a wide variety of symptoms that stimulate the body’s natural healing process.

The beauty of herbal medicine lies in its flexibility. Herbal formulas contain a range of herbs that possess different qualities and properties which can target certain aspects of disharmony. Just as each person and condition is different, herbal formulas can be specifically designed for the individual needs of each patient and can be modified as the healing process progresses. Herbs rarely elicit side effects and have been safely used for thousands of years.

Formulas come in many forms, including raw herbs, prepared pills, powders and tinctures and are usually made up for each patient’s specific pattern.

Chinese herbal medicine has been practiced safely and effectively for centuries and has the greatest potential for beneficial results when prescribed by a trained professional who recognizes the benefits and risks. In California, licensed acupuncturists are the only licensed health care professionals who are required to be trained and tested for competency in the prescription of herbal medicine.