how acupuncture works
Acupuncture is one of the most ancient forms of healthcare in the world. According to Chinese medicine, every physical ailment is caused by an energy imbalance within the body. This energy, known as ‘Qi’, flows through a series of meridians (channels) all over the body and can be accessed via hundreds of specific acu-points. By needling these points, obstructions in the flow of Qi can be unblocked and balance restored, and well-being promoted or regained. Acupuncture aims to facilitate the smooth flow of Qi in the body, thereby improving well-being.
Treatment involves the gentle insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to elicit a healing response from your body. Typically, a practitioner will use 10-12 needles placed at various parts of the body; they will be retained for 28 minutes during which time the patient can relax in the serene environment.
Needles are so fine as to be barely discernible. Some patients experience sensations variously described as heat, heaviness or electricity in the area. This is known as ‘De Qi’ or the arrival of Qi. Some patients feel nothing. Everyone is different.
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This stimulates the nervous system, activating the body’s capacity to regulate and self-heal. Treating the root causes as well as the symptoms or 'branches' in this way promotes physical and mental wellbeing, gently and naturally.
BOOSTS IMMUNITY
Stimulates organ function and promotes health. Restores balance between the immune cells.
ENCOURAGES HEALING
Creates a micro-trauma to the area to increase blood flow and elicit the body's own innate healing mechanisms.
REDUCES INFLAMMATION
Balances inflammatory mediators in the body
IMPROVES CIRCULATION
Releases stagnant Qi to promote circulation in the body and improve function where needed.
INCREASESÂ SENSE OF WELL-BEING
Affects the part of the brain that governs serotonin, the brain chemical.
REDUCES PAIN
Releases endorphins, the body's natural pain killing chemicals.
New studies are being published continually which are helping us understand the ways in which acupuncture activates the body's various systems to achieve its healing effects.
Acupuncture points have been found to have a greater electrical conductance than other sites
Photophelthysmography demonstrates enhanced microvascular blood flow in surrounding tissue
MRI readings demonstrate that acupuncture elicits therapeutic changes in the brain.
Ultrasound images
have demonstrated increased blood flow following needle stimulation