The ancient Chinese believe that there is a universal life energy called Chi or Qi present in every living creature. This energy is said to circulate throughout the body along specific pathways that are called meridians. As long as this energy flows freely throughout the meridians, health is maintained, but once the flow of energy is blocked, the system is disrupted and pain and illness occur.
Imagine rivers that flood and cause disasters or an electrical grid short-circuiting that causes blackouts. Acupuncture works to "re-program" and restore normal functions by stimulating certain points on the meridians in order to free up the Chi energy.
During an acupuncture treatment session, sterile, one-time use, metallic needles are inserted into the body. The needles part the skin, rather than puncture it. The longer the acupuncture needles (5-9 inches) are inserted into areas of deeper muscle/fat layers or along under the sin or scalp depending on what is being treated and the required depth or penetration. The acupuncture needles are often left in for approximately 15-30 minutes.
People experience acupuncture differently, and rarely do they describe it as painful. Unlike needles used for injections, the tip of an acupuncture needle comes smoothly to a pint, instead of by way of a sharp edge. Acupuncture needles are also extremely thin - about 20 times thinner than a hypodermic needle used for injections. The acupuncture needles are solid and do not remove tissue as would occur with a hypodermic needle, making them safer.
Acupuncture services are available in partnership with a chiropractic adjustment appointment.