Traditional acupuncture is the placement of an ultra-thin needle into a neurovascular node(s). Neurovascular nodes are specific locations on the body where high concentrations of nerve endings and small blood vessels permeate the surrounding tissues. Acupuncture utilizes these neurovascular nodes as an interface, and elicits positive effects on the central and peripheral nervous systems. Neurovascular nodes selection is based on the root pathophysiology of the condition being treated.

Acupuncture needles are approximately 10 times smaller than a hypodermic needle. Their bodies are solid, ultra-thin, very flexible, and their tips are microscopically round. Hypodermic needles are hollow, thick, rigid, and razor sharp.

Acupuncture is a pain free experience, but not a sensation free experience. The sensations associated with receiving acupuncture are important, and a good thing. Sensations will vary based on which nerve fibers are recruited. Examples: pressure, itching, heaviness, a pin prick, warmth, or coolness. This confirms the nervous system is being influenced and interacted with through the neurovascular nodes.

Needle free modalities offered by Acupuncturists can vary. Some examples are acupressure, cupping, guasha, tuina, moxibustion, Chinese herbal medicine, and Chinese nutritional counseling. You will need to check which services your Acupuncturist offers as it can range from different practitioners and in which state you're seeking treatment.

Being healthy goes beyond the symptoms of acute and chronic illness. Acknowledging our health before it is compromised will help put you on a path toward optimal health and vitality. Acupuncture checkups can help identify, rebalance, and correct minor problems before they become major concerns. Wellness care is the root of healing.

Acupuncture is commonly used for the treatment of pain, discomfort, and many other distressing symptoms. Your care may consist of frequent visits during the initial weeks or months of treatment to reduce your symptoms. Your chief concern, age, lifestyle, and how well regulated your nervous system is, are all factors that determine your treatment frequency and outcome. Each visit builds on the previous visit while working towards achieving your health goals. Once your signs and symptoms are reduced, preventative maintenance visits will preserve the progress you have made. These visits may be monthly, every other month, or seasonally.

For some conditions acupuncture can produce quick and miraculous results, however this is generally the exception not the rule. Acupuncture works cumulatively, like strength training or learning a new language. While your symptoms may not abate in the first few treatments there are indicators you can look for to know when acupuncture is working for you.

• less stress

• better sleep

• more energy

• better digestion

• general sense of improved well-being

 Taking note of these positive changes means that acupuncture is doing its job.