Acupuncture is a traditional form of Chinese Medicine and consists of the painless insertion of very small filiform needles into specific points on the body. These specific points are called acupoints.
Acupoints are the sites through which Qi of the internal organs and meridians are transported to the body surface.
Insertion of needles at defined acupoints have two effects:
1. Nerve Stimulation – transmit electrical impulses which stimulate the proper regulation of the tissues in question.
2. Release of chemical substances – from the brain centers and pituitary gland such as serotonin, endorphins, and others which are released into the bloodstream and are the body’s own mechanism for pain relief.
These two effects will produce a pain-relieving result, immune enhancing effect, anti-inflammatory/anti – allergic effect and regulate the nervous system.
Qi (pronounced chee) is known as a flow of energy or life force within the body. Acupuncture stimulation evokes the sensation of De–Qi, an experience comprising of unique sensations. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine patients often describe De-Qi as aching or soreness, numbness or tingling, fullness, pressure, heaviness or an electrical sensation. Another thing about De-Qi is that it often radiates from where it starts, moving along pathways in the body called Meridians or Channels.
Yin and Yang mean two fundamental principles or forces in the universe, ever opposing and supplementing each other. Yin and Yang are always in a state of dynamic balance. They balance each other out, hence a relative equilibrium in the body is maintained and health is guaranteed. When one is deficient or in excess an imbalance occurs with symptoms following soon after. Yin and Yang in the human body – where Yin presents as female, in the interior of the body, on the chest/abdomen, blood, nourishing (Qi). And Yang presents as male, on the surface of the body, on the spine/back, energy (Qi), protecting (Qi).
Acupuncture doesn’t have to be painful to be effective. De-Qi sensations like dullness or heaviness are actually positive signs that the treatment is working. Since the needles used are very thin and gently inserted, you may not feel them going in. You might feel a mild ache, tingling or electric sensation which indicates that the acupoint is being activated and arrival of De-Qi has been reached. If you do feel severe or sharp pain, it’s important to tell your acupuncturist. Most discomfort during acupuncture is brief and only lasts a few seconds.
Sensitivity – some people are more sensitive to needle sensations than others.
Location – certain areas of the body may be more sensitive or have more nerve endings.
Technique – the skill/technique of the acupuncturist can affect how comfortable the treatment feels.
State of mind – Anxiety or tension can heighten perception of pain or discomfort.
Individual differences – each patient’s pain threshold and response to acupuncture can vary.
The first visit consists of an initial assessment where you will be required to fill out patient information. Kristin will ask you a series of questions regarding the reason for your visit, past medical history, as well as your physical, mental, and emotional health. This appointment will be 1 – 1 ½ hrs. She will ask to look at your tongue and take your pulse on both wrists. The tongue is looked at because a number of meridians run through your tongue, and it is often a good indicator of your health and organs. Once Kristin has determined your diagnosis, she will insert the needles into the appropriate acupoints and let you rest for 20 minutes. Once the needles have been removed and Kristin has ensured that you are feeling good after the treatment, you are free to go.
Subsequent visits with no new issues will usually last ½ - 1 hr.