Acupuncture

Centuries ago, doctors in China were convinced that many illnesses were caused by an imbalance of energy in the body. With acupuncture, disposable, stainless steel needles are utilized to stimulate the body’s 14 major meridians, or energy-carrying channels, to resist or overcome illnesses by correcting these imbalances.

Once viewed suspiciously as an exotic form of treatment by both the general public and by medical doctors, acupuncture’s usefulness has proven itself and is rapidly becoming a mainstream treatment for pain. Although no one is absolutely sure as to exactly how acupuncture works, it does work for multitudes of patients and for treating numerous conditions. This was nicely summarized by F. Michael Ferrante, MD, Director of the UCLA Pain Management Center in Los Angeles: “I think there’s good scientific evidence for acupuncture and I prescribe it.”

Acupuncture is most effective at treating chronic pain and is thought to decrease pain by increasing the release of endorphins and chemicals that block pain. Many acu-points are near nerves; when stimulated, these nerves cause a dull ache or feeling of fullness in the muscle. The stimulated muscle sends a message to the central nervous system, causing the release of endorphins that block the message of pain from being delivered to the brain.

Acupuncture treatments have provided countless individuals significant relief from maladies as diverse as chronic headaches/migraine, fatigue, allergies, digestive disorders, sleeping problems, menstrual disorders, joint pain, lower back pain or muscle pain, colitis conditions, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, (especially of the knee) fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, sports injuries, and numerous other symptoms, even when the conditions have been severe and chronic. A recent study at the University of Maryland School of Medicine concluded that acupuncture provided significant relief to some patients suffering from low back pain. And many of those who receive ongoing maintenance treatments have reported less frequent illnesses, quicker recovery, improved stamina, reduced long-term health care costs, and a more harmonious mental outlook.

Uncomfortable with or afraid of needles? Don’t be. Acupuncture needles are about the thickness of a human hair, are made of the finest quality stainless steel, are pre-sterilized and always disposable. The overwhelming majority of patients feel only a dull momentary ache or a slight tingling sensation.