What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a treatment method based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The practitioner inserts very thin needles in specific points (Acu-points) on the body to balance the flow of energy (Qi). Acupuncture stimulates the points along the energy pathways (meridians) to adjust and balance the flow of Qi and restore health.
According to the National Institute of Health, over one million people in the US receive acupuncture annually. There is evidence that stimulation of the acupuncture points can affect internal organs by means of nerve reflex pathways (the autonomic nervous system). One theory explains that acupuncture stimulates the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals called endorphins. Another theory exists, that it stimulates the pituitary gland, which in turn stimulates the adrenal gland to release anti-inflammatory chemicals.
Those are only theories, but it is a fact that acupuncture has helped millions of people to decrease pain, improve their immune system and achieve better overall health worldwide.
Is Acupuncture painful?
Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are ultra thin and flexible, thereby permitting a nearly painless insertion. The sensation could be compared to a mosquito bite. You may feel some heaviness, distention and/or tingling either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridian. Most people feel relaxed during and after the treatment.
Is Acupuncture safe?
If provided by a trained professional, acupuncture is considered a very safe. We exclusively use sterile, disposable and individually packaged needles as required by law. Every licensed acupuncturist has completed a “clean needle technique” class and exam. All practitioners at Avicenna have received at least 180 hours of course work concerning needling technique and safety. Additionally we observed and practiced the insertion and removal of needles during multiple internships for more than 1000 hours under supervision of licensed staff.