Acupuncture Services

How does acupuncture work? 

Acupuncture is based on the 2,000-year old idea of qi (pronounced “chee”), often described as the vital energy that flows through the body along meridians – channels that connect organs and systems throughout the body. This ancient idea recognizes the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the smooth and balanced flow of qi is essential for maintaining health, and disruptions or blockages in this flow can lead to disease or discomfort.

While the idea of qi and meridians may seem abstract, modern research provides insights into acupuncture’s underlying effects. Acupuncture points, numbering over 365 on the body, are strategically chosen along these meridians. Stimulating these points through the insertion of thin needles creates a cascade of physical responses that help restore balance and promote health.

Recent scientific studies reveal that acupuncture triggers the release of various neurotransmitters, such as endorphins and serotonin, which play crucial roles in pain management and mood regulation. Acupuncture also influences the autonomic nervous system, promoting a shift towards relaxation and stress reduction.

But acupuncture's effects extend beyond the local area of needle insertion. Studies have shown that acupuncture can improve blood flow, enhance the body's natural anti-inflammatory response, and regulate immune function. These system-wide effects contribute to acupuncture's effectiveness in helping with a wide range of conditions, from chronic pain to anxiety, depression, and digestive issues.

It's important to recognize that while the concept of qi and meridians were developed over 2,000 years ago, the practice of acupuncture continues to evolve through modern scientific understanding. Today, acupuncture is increasingly integrated into mainstream healthcare settings, where it complements conventional treatments and offers patients a holistic approach to wellness.

For those interested in a modern-day, research-oriented approach, understanding acupuncture involves understanding which effects are supported by solid research. 

Here's a breakdown of the various ways acupuncture provides holistic wellness:

• Boosts endorphins: Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system to release endorphins, natural chemicals that act as the body's built-in painkillers. This natural opioid effect is pivotal for pain management and offers a drug-free approach to pain relief.

• Hormonal regulation: Acupuncture exerts influence on the hypothalamus-pituitary-axis, the brain's command center for hormone regulation. By normalizing reproductive hormones and enhancing blood flow to the uterus, acupuncture has been shown to be effective in addressing women's health issues, infertility, and pregnancy support.

• Stress reduction: By engaging with the parasympathetic nervous system, acupuncture improves the activation of self-preservation functions such as sleep and digestion. This activation allows individuals to experience a sense of relaxation and restoration, aiding in stress reduction and promoting overall wellbeing.

• Enhances circulation: Acupuncture induces blood vessel dilation, improving blood circulation throughout the body. This enhanced circulation not only promotes the delivery of nutrients to tissues but also aids in the removal of metabolic waste products, contributing to tissue healing and overall health.

• Boosts the immune system: Research suggests that acupuncture can bolster the body's immune response by increasing the production of immune cells such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and T-cells. This improved immune response can potentially increase the body's ability to fight disease and maintain optimal health.

Finally, acupuncture is considered a holistic medicine because unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses on relieving symptoms, holistic medicine seeks to identify the underlying problem. 

And what do you get when all of your bodily systems are in order? Why, holistic wellness, of course!