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Acupuncture

Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves the manipulation of small, thin filiform needle to stimulate specific anatomical locations to produce a desired therapeutic result. Acupuncture points are located along pathways connected by fascia that follow major blood vessels and nerve pathways. 

 

Acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural ability to heal, inducing biochemical and physiological responses at the site of the needle and within the brain. Acupuncture also releases of hormones, neurotransmitters, and endorphins to reduce pain, promote healing, and improve immune function. Treatments offer symptom relief, in addition to addressing the underlying cause of dis-ease.  Acupuncture is safe, effective and non-pharmacological treatment option that improves physical, mental and emotional health. 

Acupuncture works to balance the system immediately. Four to 6 visits at 2x/week for 2-3 weeks is recommended for acute conditions as well as for chronic conditions to develop momentum in the healing process.

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Treatment.

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT.  Schedule Online or with our awesome Client Coordinator who will get you set up and ready to heal. Please fill out our New Patient Registration Form and the HealingTree Clinic Policy Form, and bring them to your first appointment. We encourage setting up a treatment series (4-6 treatments) to ensure you receive the most benefit from the treatments. One treatment per season is recommended for preventative care. 

WELCOME TO THE CLINIC.  When you arrive, you'll be greeted and shown to a private treatment room where you can sit back and relax. Please share any paperwork or lab reports for your practitioner to review. 

DURING YOUR TREATMENT.  We want to make your experience amazing. In order to ensure this, please drink plenty of water and consume a snack or meal 1-2 hours before to decrease the chance of feeling light headed and to provide 'fuel' that your body needs to heal. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing to allow access up to the knees and elbows. A medical gown or linens will be provided if needed.

The initial evaluation begins by a review of your privacy rights and signature of the treatment consent. Your practitioner will then discuss your health history, asking detailed questions. This information helps to determine the most effective and efficient way to holistically address your therapeutic goals and health needs. Blood pressure, pulse rate, manual muscle testing, range of motion, and other orthopedic/neurological tests may be performed. Tongue and pulse diagnosis is also taken each visit. This is unique to Traditional East Asian Medicine, and used by licensed acupuncturists to determine the diagnostic pattern and treatment plan. 

A treatment session typically consists of several modalities. Each modality has a specific therapeutic benefit. We incorporate what is necessary and appropriate for the most effective and efficient results. For example, in one session, a client may receive medical cupping, moxibustion, acupuncture, and heat therapy.

 

DOES IT HURT?

Acupuncture should not hurt. The insertion may not be felt at all, may feel like a pinch, or at the worst a slight sting that quickly goes away. If the needle is too close to a blood vessel or nerve it will feel sharp. Please let your practitioner know if you experience any pain, so they can make adjustments and improve your comfort. Patients most commonly report feeling a dull ache, tingling, heaviness or lightness at the point of insertion. Occasionally, people will report feeling a sensation of movement from where the needle was placed. Single use, sterile monofilament, very thin needles are utilized. For those uncertain or apprehensive about needling, there are several effective modalities available to facilitate a therapeutic response. As always, please let us know if you are uncomfortable as we can adjust your treatment.

 
ACUPUNCTURE SPECIALTIES

TRIGGER POINT NEEDLING 

A Pill Free Solution for Pain

COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE

Beauty from the Inside Out. 

Cosmetic Acupuncture stimulates collagen, nourishes tissue and increases blood flow to the face and neck. It takes only four weeks for cosmetic acupuncture to have its peak affect. Our treatments are based on a 10 treatment protocol series, with two sessions a week for five weeks. Results may occur as soon as the first treatment, with results lasting well after the treatment series.  The number of sessions needed depends on your age, desired results, and other lifestyle factors. With monthly maintenance, your 10 treatment protocol series may last between 2 to 5 years. 

Only 1 acupuncture needle, stimulated less than 30 seconds completely relaxed a severe muscle spasm in my neck that would normally have lasted days. Feeling NO Pain and 100% better, I was able to fully enjoy the Great Wall of China with my colleagues.

Dr Korina St John, DACM, MS, LAc

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