What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes that the body is divided by a series of networks known as channels. This intricate system of channels and their connecting vessels act as the distributing system that carries Qi (energy), blood, and fluids throughout the body. The blockage of Qi or energy flow can result in pain and disease.
The basic principle of acupuncture is that by stimulating acupuncture points on the surface of the body, an effect occurs that is transmitted through the channels and ultimately into the interior of the body. This effect will in turn lead the body to try and restore and maintain health.
Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Pain-Gate theory
Western science believes that pain impulses are blocked from reaching the spinal cord or brain at various “gates” within the nervous system. Research has shown that both peripheral and central nerves are affected by acupuncture at specific acupuncture points, therefore providing those who are suffering from pain relief.
Stimulations of endorphins
Research shows that acupuncture stimulates the brain’s production of polypeptides that reduces pain sensitivity. Scientists have discovered that one of the mechanisms of how acupuncture works is that it increases the release of natural pain-relieving molecules known as endorphins by the brain. These are very similar to opiates (such as morphine), which are potent anesthetic agents.
Effects on neurotransmitters
Through clinical studies, it has been shown that acupuncture has a connection to the central nervous system which induces production or secretion of chemicals in the body such as neurotransmitters, hormones, and lymphokines. Thus, acupuncture affect the body's autonomic mechanisms that control and regulate the physiological reaction to pain.

What is acupuncture used for?
Acupuncture has been used and is used for a wide variety of ailments. Common conditions that we treat at our clinic are:
- Allergies
- Anxiety/Depression
- Arthritis (Degenerative Joint Diseases)
- Asthma
- Automobile Injuries
- Back Pain
- Bell's Palsy
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects (Nausea, Vomitting)
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
- Common Cold & Influenza
- Dermatological Disorders (Acne, Eczema, ect.)
- Digestive Disorders (Colitis, IBS, Constipation, Diarrhea, Gas, Bloating, ect.)
- Fertility Support in Men & Women
- High Blood Pressure
- Insomnia
- Menopause Discomfort
- Migraines and Tension Headaches
- Morning Sickness
- Musculoskeletal Pain
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- PMS & Menstrual Disorders
- Sciatica
- Sinusitis
- Smoking Cessation & Addiction Detoxification Support
- Stress Syndrome
- Stroke (Post-Stroke Recovery)
- Tinnitus
- Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Weight Control and Nutritional Education
Take the first step towards a pain free future by calling for an appointment today.
(425) 789-8996