What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a primary health care modality that has flourished in China for over 4,000 years and is used widely throughout Europe and Asia. It is considered as one of the newest primary health care provisions in this country and has been licensed by the California Medical Board since 1975 as primary health care.

Far more than a technique of inserting tiny hair-thin disposable needles along meridian lines of the body, acupuncture's complex system of diagnostic methods take into consideration the person as a whole, not just isolated symptoms. Acupuncture is practiced based on a complex system of physical diagnosis that has been developed over many centuries. Modern acupuncturists use a number of modalities in their treatments, such as herbal medicine, moxibustion, nutrition, and certain physical therapies and equipment.

Acupuncture treats to strengthen the physical body, prevent disease, control pain, and achieve longevity. You will find the aim as practiced in oriental medicine in general is not limited to eliminating or alleviating symptoms. The larger picture, rather, is to increase both the ability to function and the quality of life.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture is a therapy which uses natural laws and energetics with the application of needles and pressure to stimulate specific "points" on the body. These points are grouped along specific pathways or meridians that cross the body. As long as the energy flows freely through these pathways, health is maintained. When the flow of energy is either absent, deficient, interrupted, excessive or blocked in an area, health is disrupted, resulting in illness or pain. By stimulating appropriate acupuncture points along these meridians, the energy is released and regulated, and health is restored.

Studies indicate that acupuncture influences the central and peripheral nervous systems. Evidence shows it releases endorphins from the brain which make acupuncture particularly effective in pain control. Among a host of factors, acupuncture affects sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in the blood, the functioning of the gastrointestinal system, and the activity of the endocrine system. Acupuncture works with the body, harmonizing and balancing energy. It improves circulation and allows the body to heal itself more quickly and more completely.

What Should You Expect During Treatment?

Most patients find the treatment very relaxing, which brings on a feeling of well-being. Most are surprised at how comfortable they are during treatment and how easily the needles are placed. Some people even go to sleep during treatment. A patient may feel a slight sensation upon entry and then pressure of a "dull" or "surging" reaction when the needle reaches the "chi" or correct point. The tiny thin needles are specifically designed to be virtually painless. Rest assured, the needles are far different from the hypodermic needles given in injections.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

One of the great advantages of acupuncture is the absence of serious side effects. Needles generally cause no bleeding on entry or removal, and are the one-time pre-sterilized & disposable kind. There is minimal risk of organ or blood vessel penetration.

What if You Absolutely Hate Needles?

How Many Treatments Are Necessary?

Each person is unique with an individualized treatment plan. No two conditions or people respond exactly the same. The length of treatment depends on the type, severity and duration of the condition, and the physical state at the time of treatment. Both examination and your response can give us an idea. In short or lengthy cases, I do an evaluation with you to assess your progress. In order to get the best therapeutic results, it is important to follow the treatment plan and recommendations carefully. It is also vital to complete the course of therapy to restore health.

We provide additional programs for health maintenance that are designed to promote health, longevity, as well as maintaining good health throughout the body.

If You Have Any Questions

...About whether or not acupuncture is for you or about any of our programs, we offer a no charge consultation to discuss your condition and treatment plan.

...About your response to care: If you have any problems, concerns, questions, or emergencies, please call us. If our answering service or machine responds to your call please leave a message. We call in for messages or they are relayed to us. Your call will be returned.

We are here to provide you with the very best of care.

What About Insurance Billing?

As a courtesy to our patients we provide verification of benefits and bill all types of insurance that cover acupuncture care, including:

• Private Health Insurance
• Auto Med-Pay
• Workers' Compensation Insurance

What Conditions Have Been Effectively Treated By Acupuncture?