Chinese medicine view: Acupuncture is based on a system of channels, called meridians, which flow through the body underneath its physiological structure. You can imagine subway or train lines moving through a city. These meridians move through the body in the same way. Meridians interact with the organs, tissues, and blood vessels of the body. Along these meridians are areas where qi (pronounced chi) pools or banks. These areas are where acupuncture points are located. The points are like stops along the subway or train line. When the flow of qi becomes blocked or obstructed, the body falls out of balance and disease or illness ensues. By needling these points we can unblock the channels, and redirect the smooth flow of qi, bringing the body back into balance.

Western view: Acupuncture works in two major ways: the release of endogenous opioids; and the down modulation of sympathetic up regulation. What does that mean? Put simply, it makes the body release its own naturally occurring pain killers and its own feel good chemicals, and helps the body to relax the nervous system. Acupuncture calms the fight or flight response, improves circulation, and helps with pain and healing. Morphological studies have shown that most acupuncture points are located on or near peripheral nerve trunks or branches, capillary vessels, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, nerve receptors, nerve endings, and mast cells. The acupuncture channels, or meridians correspond to trajectories of relevant deep peripheral nerves including blood vessels. The nerves within the meridians are stimulated during a treatment, and this is involved in the therapeutic effects of acupuncture.

An initial consultation (which includes acupuncture treatment) is typically 90 minutes, and follow-up sessions are 60 minutes. The first 20-30 minutes consists of an intake, where we discuss your health concerns, and goals. I will feel your pulse, examining the strength, rhythm, and quality of your pulse, and observe the shape, color, and coating of your tongue to gain information about your constitution. After the intake you will lay on a massage table and receive a treatment. Needles are retained for 25-35 minutes. I may also do gua sha, cupping, or moxibustion during the session, or prescribe you Chinese herbs. Once needles are removed, you are finished with the treatment. Drink some water and enjoy the rest of your day. I do not recommend intense exercise right after an acupuncture treatment. Often people feel a bit tired afterwards. It’s a great time to eat something nourishing and take it easy.

Acupuncture needles are tiny. Most people find acupuncture treatments to be painless, or nearly so. That said, like any therapy (physical therapy, massage, or even talk therapy), there is some discomfort in the healing process. This is normal and expected. You may feel a mild aching sensation at the site of the insertion once the needle reaches the correct depth. This is referred to as “de qi” which translates to “needle sensation” or “arrival of qi”. Once needles are in most people feel extremely calm and relaxed, and often fall asleep.