The Pinprick Prescription: Discover the Benefits of Acupuncture

As the practice of acupuncture becomes more popular, you may have asked yourself if it is a good treatment option for you.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that is used to treat a variety of conditions. Acupuncture is a procedure where very fine sterile metal needles are inserted into specific points on the body which stimulates sensory nerves of the skin and muscles. This therapeutic medical technique has been used in China and Southeast Asia for over 2500 years, and is now a common complementary practice globally.

How does it work?

While the exact physiology of this beautiful complex medical art is not well understood, some explanation can be given by taking a deeper look into how TCM views health and the body. Please note, that this is a much-simplified view of TCM.

Health, in TCM, is the result of imbalances of the yin and yang of Qi. Qi (pronounced “chi”) can be loosely defined as the life force that regulates bodily functions and health. Qi flows through various meridians, or energetic channels, in the human body. Qi is considered blocked or transformed into an excess or deficiency when illness is present, causing various symptoms. Acupuncture helps stimulate the flow of Qi to alleviate symptoms and restore energetic flow along these meridians.

Scientific studies have shown that acupuncture has an effect on the nervous system and may cause neurotransmitter and endorphin (“happy” chemicals that relieve pain and stress) release.

Are there any risks?

Acupuncture is a relatively low-risk procedure. It is always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatments. Potential risks of acupuncture include bleeding or bruising at the insertion site, unsterilized needles may cause infection, or in extremely rare cases, a needle may break. Additionally, while acupuncture can be helpful for symptoms related to pregnancy (such as morning sickness, pelvic pain, and breast tenderness), certain acupuncture points are contraindicated during this time.

What does it help with?

There are a whole host of conditions that acupuncture can help with, but here are a few. The following is NOT an exhaustive list:

· Chronic pain

· Migraines

· Neuropathies/Tendinopathies

· Menstrual and Reproductive concerns

· Chronic fatigue

· Gastrointestinal issues

· Mental Health

What should I expect?

While every practitioner has their own unique healing style, a typical acupuncture session will begin with a comprehensive intake to fully understand your health picture. Certain acupuncturists will then feel your pulses by your wrist and observe your tongue, as these can also give us information on your TCM health picture. Then you will typically lie down for your treatment. The acupuncturist will clean the insertion sites over the acupuncture points they have selected. They will insert the sterile needles one by one. You may feel a short stinging or tingling sensation upon the needle insertion, which may be followed by a dull ache. The needles typically stay in for 20-30 minutes, after which the needles are removed.

How many times will I need to come in?

Everyone is different. The number of treatments each person needs depends on their specific health condition(s). Most of my patients will feel effects immediately, but the effects of the treatment last longer the more sessions they get. It also depends on if the concern is acute or chronic--the longer you’ve been living with something, the longer it may take to treat.

I’m an Arizona resident and I'm ready to see if acupuncture is right for me. How do I book a session?

Call (480) 382-9460 to book your first session Today!

You made it to the end! Thanks for sticking around. If you found this information helpful, sign up for my mailing list today.

As always, Take good care.

Love,

Dr. Janki Dalal

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is NOT personal medical advice. This material is purely for educational purposes and is not a substitute for a proper medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult with your doctor before starting any new treatment.