ABOUT ACUPUNCTURE AND HERBAL MEDICINE

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used systems of healing in the world. Originating in China approximately 2,000 years ago, only in the last three decades has it become popular in the United States. The FDA estimates that Americans make up to 20 million visits per year to acupuncture practitioners and spent upwards of a billion dollars on acupuncture treatments.

How Does it work?

Acupuncture works on several levels. On one level 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 located near, neural structures, this suggests that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system. On another level acupuncture stimulates the body to produce endorphins. Other studies have found that  opiods are  released into the body during acupuncture treatment. 
According to ancient Chinese theory, acupuncture allows Qi to flow to areas where it is deficient and away from where it is in excess, thus regulating and restoring the harmonious energetic balance of the body.

How deep do the needles go?

This depends on the nature of the problem, the location of the specific points, the patient's size, age and constitution. Usually, needles are inserted barley beyond skin level.

Does It hurt?

Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are solid and hair-thin, and they are not designed to cut the skin. Also, they are inserted to much shallower levels than hypodermic needles, depending on the type of treatment being delivered. While each person experiences acupuncture differently, most people feel only a minimal amount of sensation as the needles are inserted. Some people reportedly feel a sensation of excitement, while others feel relaxed. If any discomfort is felt, it is usually mild.

Are the needles clean? Yes!

We uses only sterilized, individually packaged, disposable needles. This eliminates the possibility of transmitting a communicable disease by a contaminated needle.

How many treatments are needed?

This depends on the severity, duration and nature of the complaint or illness. Sometimes, a single treatment will alleviate symptoms. Some chronic problems may require a series of 5 to 15 treatments. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time.