Acupuncture works by using extremely fine needles to stimulate strategic points of the body. These specific points can have the ability to alter various biochemical and physiological conditions, and also allow the release of endorphins, which are the bodies natural pain-relieving hormones. This affects the hormonal system, and can promote a decrease in inflammation, increased circulation and relief from pain. Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy (chi) through pathways in your body. In contrast, many Western practitioners view the acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue.
Acupuncture can be used to treat a vast number of painful conditions such as sciatica, lower back pain, osteoarthritis of the knee, sprains and strains, whiplash and headaches, as well as neurological and other medical conditions. Acupuncture is especially effective for treating and managing pain. Used as a complement to other forms of treatment, acupuncture can bring about quicker or better resolutions of problems and can shorten the overall amount of treatment needed.
Using very fine needles with rounded tips, many people do not even feel the insertion of the needle. There is an the almost complete absence of adverse effects and complications from Acupuncture. Most patients find that the treatments are relaxing and cause minimal discomfort. Acupuncture is a safe technique, provided that practitioners are properly trained and follow appropriate techniques. Practitioners at TÅPESTRY are AFCI-trained and use single-use, sterile disposable needles and have been trained regarding precautions and contraindications to acupuncture. The York Acupuncture Safety Study, a prospective study of 34407 acupuncture treatments found no serious adverse effects and only 43 cases of minor adverse effects, the most common of which were nausea and fainting.
It is important to inform the practitioner of your medical history, medications and if you are pregnant or could possibly be pregnant, as acupuncture treatment may have to be modified or may not be appropriate.