ACUPUNCTURE

This is the insertion of hair-fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to regulate function of the organ systems, increase circulation and instigate immune responses.

Scientifically, acupuncture is controlled microtrauma – the nervous system responds to a needle stick by inducing a chain of reactions to aid healing (neurochemical release, white and red blood cell activity increases in the injured area).

It also influences the electromagnetic field of the body by causing the body to continually generate tiny, but detectable, electrical charges. This electrical field influences growth, maturation and cell function. Acupuncture points of areas of low electrical resistance, and therefore better conductors of electricity. As a result, needles are stainless steel.

Acupuncture relaxes contracted muscles. The act of sticking a needle into a tense muscle is counterintuitive to muscle contraction and forces muscle relaxation, which is often experienced as a twitch-like response by the patient.

Once a needle is inserted, the patient will often feel a diffuse vibrational/humming/warming sensation that is very relaxing. This response is a stimulation of parasympathetic responses and endorphin release, which combats bodily stress.

Any and all disorders are alleviated by acupuncture to some degree – as either the primary therapy, or as an adjunctive therapy. The mechanism of action includes balancing organ system function at its root whereby symptoms are alleviated or resolved.

ACUPUNCTURE WITH ELECTRICAL STIMULATION

It is a common practice amongst modern Acupuncture Physicians to use electrical stimulation to enhance treatment. Wires are safely attached to the needles to allow for continuous stimulation of the needles during needle retention. It is also helpful to fatigue muscles in the case of pain due to muscle contracture.

TRIGGER POINT/ACU-POINT INJECTION THERAPY/BIOPUNCTURE

This therapy uses acupuncture point theory in conjunction with an anatomical knowledge of muscle dysfunction to administer homeopathic herbs directly to injured tissue. The efficacy of this technique comes from stimulating the body’s immune system to promote healing. The herbal remedies help break up adhesions in old injuries and regulate the inflammation that causes pain. Chronic conditions may require a course of treatment. This technique often induces immediate relief in newly injured tissue and is a favorite of our athletes!

Find out more about Biopuncture

CUPPING

This is a bodywork procedure that uses suction force against the skin to reduce pain. Suction is achieved by using plastic or glass cups, which helps to increase circulation, break up adhesions and siphon fresh blood into affect tissue. It is also effective in increasing muscle firing in muscles that are deficient. Cups are placed stationary at the site of pain, or moved up and down the muscles. Since the involved tissue binds with normal tissue, it develops a blood supply. As restrictions are released from healthy tissue, bruising may occur, especially in treating chronic conditions. Some areas of the body that have a very rich blood supply may produce more bruising. An increase in soreness and discomfort is not uncommon after the first treatment session and is most often a positive sign that restrictions have been released. Soreness is usually minimized after 48 to 72 hours and can be controlled with ice and stretching.

GUA SHA (similar to Chiropractic Graston Technique)

A myofascial technique applied to the skin to free up muscle adhesions, increase circulation to tissue and muscles, and greatly alleviate pain. We often apply this modality in conjunction with movement therapy by moving the patient through specific ranges of motion. After restrictions are freed, treatment often ends with massage.

EAR SEEDS

Using the concepts of Auricular therapy, vacaria seeds are attached to acupuncture points on the ear under tiny band-aids. The whole body can be influenced by this form of acupressure much like foot reflexology affects a person’s entire body. This is a great modality for children and those afraid of needles. People who suffer from stress and anxiety find this to be a helpful modality because they can press and activate a point during a stressful or anxiety-inducing event to help bring a sense of calm. The seeds remain on the skin from 3-5 days where they may naturally fall off or be removed by the practitioner.

MOXIBUSTION

Moxibustion involves the burning of a Chinese Herb, Artemisia Vulgaris (Mugwort), which produces valuable heat that is hovered above the acupuncture points. This is an affective technique often used in conjunction with acupuncture to increase energy, vitality and tonify the body’s systems.

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