An integrative approach to health

Originating in China some 3,500 years ago, only in the last three decades has it become popular in the United States. This form of complimentary medicine is based on energy meridians or channels that run along the surface of the body and connect to internal vital organs and surrounding tissues. According to traditional theory, points along these pathways can be stimulated and manipulated to correct imbalance and restore optimal health. Chinese medicine believes Qi flows through the body in these invisible channels and when it becomes blocked or deficient symptoms of pain and disease will appear. From a western biomedical perspective it stimulates the immune system, regulates blood sugar, increases blood circulation, triggers stomach peristaltic activity thereby improving digestion, and regulates neurotransmitters in the brain to improve sleep, mood, and pain sensations.

This is all done by the insertion of fine needles, not much larger that a human hair, into specific points of the body, ear or scalp that are carefully selected in accordance to the patient’s complaint and diagnosis. The severity of the condition and physical state of each patient dictates the number and frequency of treatments necessary for the best results. Upon insertion, a patient may feel a sensation of heaviness or tingling, which goes away immediately and after the treatment, patients often report feeling relaxed or euphoric. All needles are single use and disposable.