Acupuncture is an ancient treatment method used in China for at least 3000 years. It is one of many treatment methods used in Oriental Medicine. Beside acupuncture, the usage of herbal formulas, moxibustion cupping, Gua Sha, Tuina, Tai Chi, Qi Gong and nutrition are part of what is called Oriental Medicine. According to the basics foundation of Oriental Medicine, Disease is the result of an imbalance of the energy flow of the body. Acupuncture is believed to balance the energy by redirects it’s flow and assist the body to heal. Acupuncture may be defined as the insertion of very thin needles into specific points on the body to cause a desired healing affect. It is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and improved function.

According to the principle of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture does not treat “a disease”, but the individual imbalances, that are the cause of many diseases, therefore, acupuncture can be helpful in almost any “dis- eased” state, by helping the organism to re- establish health.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO), acupuncture has proven effective in treating of many common problems.

In western terms, acupuncture can assist the body to heal itself by affecting certain physiological changes like increasing blood circulation, releasing hormones and neurotransmitters (endorphins, cortisol), regulating the endocrine system, relieving muscle spasm, stimulating the immune system, regulating serotonin in the brain, which plays an important role in human disposition,etc. From a Chinese medical paradigm, acupuncture stimulates the body to heal itself by restoring the harmonious flow of “Qi” (energy). When the free flow of “Qi” is disturbed due to trauma, poor diet, medications, physical or emotional stress, hereditary conditions or environmental factors; pain and illness results.

Acupuncture is one of the safest forms of medical treatment when it is administered properly by a licensed acupuncturist. An acupuncture needle is an extremely fine, sterile, FDA approved medical device, disposable and promptly discarded after each use. A licensed acupuncturist has undergone years of training in its safe implementation.

Side effects are rare, but do exist. Some patients may become lethargic for 24 hours after acupuncture, others may feel relaxed or energized after treatment. The response to an acupuncture treatment is different for each patient and so are the effects.

The insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually painless. Most patients become very relaxed after the needles are inserted and many fall asleep during treatment. Never the less, acupuncture may cause some sensation like tingling, numbness, muscle cramping, heaviness, heat sensation, dull ache, which may be uncomfortable to some patients. There are different styles of acupuncture. At Point Of Balance – Acupuncture & Herbs, we practice a gentle style and accommodate even the most needle sensitive patients.

The length and frequency of acupuncture treatments depends on the severity, duration and nature of the ailment or condition presented by the patient. Typically, acupuncture treatments are given once a week. A simple acute problem, such as a sprain, may require only one treatment, whereas more severe or chronic ailments may need several treatments. Positive results are generally seen after the first to fourth treatment. When multiple treatments are necessary, they usually begin intensively and are tapered to maximum efficiency. On the first visit a detailed health history will be taken and a appropriate treatment plan determined, based on the patients signs and symptoms and the exame findings.

• Eat a light meal about one hour before coming for an acupuncture treatment.
• Wear comfortable, loose clothe, to allow access to acupuncture points that may be used for treatment (preferably shorts and sleeveless shirts)
• The first visit might take approximately one hour, follow-ups 30 to 45 minutes.
• Patients are highly recommended to refrain from wearing any perfumes or scented oils within the treatment room. Many patients are very sensitive to fragrances.
• Please turn off or silence your phone. Many patients become disturbed or distracted during treatments from phone rings when they are supposed to relax. The ability to relax or even fall asleep is part of the treatment.