Developed in China thousands of years ago, acupuncture consists of stimulating specific points on the body using fine, sterile (single-use) needles to support the body’s own healing mechanisms. Modern studies support acupuncture as one of the safest and most effective therapeutic methods available to treat pain and many internal health concerns.
Acupuncture is an umbrella category that includes various needling styles: - orthopedic techniques commonly associated with pain relief - sometimes called trigger point needling, dry needling or intramuscular stimulation (IMS) - subcutaneous needling - as in Japanese / Hara styles - micro-needling - such as auricular acupuncture, Koryo / Korean hand acupuncture, and cosmetic acupuncture or facial rejuvenation - electroacupuncture or electro-stim - needle free options such as magnets, ear seeds, tapping or acupressure - and other modern and classical methods.
None of these needling styles is unilaterally better than any other, they all have their time and place where they may be more appropriate. Our acupuncturists practice all of the above needling methods.
A Registered Acupuncturist or TCM Doctor or Practitioner’s scope of practice also includes the use of cupping (also called suction or myofascial release), moxibustion (or moxa), Gua Sha (also called scraping), Tui Na Massage, Qi Gong, and TCM nutrition.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is supported by research and utilized in clinical settings around the world. It is a holistic approach to healing, that takes into consideration all factors that may affect your health, not just the presenting symptom. It is a unique tool to help understand and treat your condition when there may otherwise seem to be no answers. TCM practitioners undergo a minimum of 4 – 5 years’ intensive study in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, anatomy & physiology, etiology & pathogenesis, and medical philosophy from both Eastern & Western perspectives, and are required to complete an undergraduate degree before being accepted into Chinese Medicine schools.
Conditions TCM is used for include (but is not limited to):
• Acute and chronic pain; pain from strain, injury, overuse or degenerative conditions • Headaches & migraines • Stress, irritability, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders • Reproductive health • Digestive health, food sensitivities • Immunological & endocrine conditions • Cardiovascular health • Allergies and respiratory health • Pre- and post-surgical support and healing • Side effects of medications or other therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation • Cosmetic acupuncture, weight management • Addictions, relapse prevention, smoking cessation, and other lifestyle changes
Laurel Irons