Service Description

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on or near the surface of the skin, called acupuncture points. These points have high concentrations of nerve endings, mast cells, lymphatics and capillaries, all capable of triggering biochemical and physiological changes in the body, from the subtle to the dramatic. When a needle is inserted into an acupuncture point, it stimulates the sensory receptor and sets off a chain reaction — the sensory receptor stimulates the nerve, which in turn transmits impulses to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system. This complex system of interactions between the brain, hormones and glands is a powerhouse, responsible for regulating a number of bodily processes. One of the processes that acupuncturists commonly work with is the release of neurotransmitters and endorphins, the body's natural pain-killing hormones (thought to be some 200 times more potent than morphine!). Endorphins play a significant role in the hormonal system, which is why acupuncture is effective in treating back pain, arthritis, PMS, fertility and much more. Acupuncture is also used to release substances that relax the body and regulate serotonin, which affects emotions. Other physiological effects include increased circulation, decreased inflammation, easing of muscle spasms and increased T-cell count, which supports the immune system. Qi (pronounced “chee”) plays a vital role in acupuncture, and there's a lot of misconception about the concept. “Qi” is a Chinese word that roughly translates to “energy.” Like the word energy, the word qi is used in many different ways to describe many different things. For example, a car is called a “qi vehicle”; if you’re angry, you have “rising qi”; the weather is “sky qi”; if you’re stingy, that’s “little qi.” In modern and traditional Chinese medicine, qi is used mainly as a metaphor for metabolic function. For example, “heart qi” would refer to functions of the heart and cardiovascular system, and “ancestral qi” refers to genetics. Most modern practitioners are well-versed in the Latin science and disease terminology of Western medicine, and will often use this language. Almost everyone can benefit from acupuncture. Regardless of your health history and physical background, almost anyone is a candidate for acupuncture. If you have an ailment, acupuncture can help relieve it. If you feel well, acupuncture can help you maintain wellness, boost immunity and manage stress.