How does acupuncture work?
As the needles are carefully inserted into acupuncture points, specific cells stimulate nerve pathways that trigger a healing response to a particular organ system or area of the body. Acupuncture also acts on the autonomic nervous system and causes the release of endorphins, enkephalins and other natural pain relieving chemicals. At East West Acupuncture the system of acupuncture used is called Seitai Shinpo (which translates into “correct posture acupuncture method”) that uses acupuncture and moxibustion to balance structural distortions by releasing tense areas of contraction along the spine. When the structure is properly balanced then the body will heal much quicker.
What can be treated with acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been used to effectively treat numerous health conditions for thousands of years. According to the World Health Organization, ¼ of the earth’s population receives acupuncture treatment on a continual basis. Both the WHO and the National Institutes of Health endorse acupuncture for many common problems including:
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- Allergies
- Anxiety
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Addictions
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Chronic Fatigue
- Colitis
- Common cold
- Constipation/Diarrhea
- Depression
- Digestive issues
- Dizziness
- Emotional issues
- Fatigue
- Fertility
- Fibromyalgia
- Headaches/Migraines
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Insomnia
- Low back pain
- Menopause
- Menstrual irregularities
- Osteoarthritis
- Pain
- PMS
- Sciatica
- Shoulder pain
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- Sinusitis
- Smoking
- Stress
- Tennis/Golf elbow
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Urinary tract infections
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Do the needles hurt? How safe is acupuncture?
Acupuncture needles are engineered so precisely that usually a very mild sensation is felt, if any at all. The needles are about the diameter of a hair. Most patients report feeling deeply relaxed and often have instant pain relief.
There are very few adverse reactions to acupuncture but in some cases your condition may temporarily exacerbated following the treatment. This is a sign of detoxification and is considered to be a good thing. Soaking your feet in Epsom salts and hot water and getting in plenty of fluids and nutrition will ease the process.
