FAQs

What is structural medical acupuncture?

Integrated Structural Acupuncture is a system of acupuncture that uses a point verification system. This means I will be testing specific areas on your abdomen, back, arms and legs that will help me to both diagnose possible imbalances and allow me to be sure the needles will be beneficial in their placement. Treatment points are verified to demonstrate their immediate effect on patient symptoms and exam findings. In this way, both practitioner and patient actively participate in the healing process. This system is effective for treating acute and chronic pain, reducing stress, and improving sleep.

How do meridians work?

The classical Chinese explanation is that channels of energy run in regular patterns through the body and over its surface. These energy channels, called meridians, are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish the tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers is like a dam that backs up in others.

What happens if energy is blocked?

Blockages can cause pain and other imbalances in the body.

The acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the "dams" and reestablish the regular flow through the meridians.

The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body’s own internal regulating system.

The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.

Is acupuncture painful?

The needles are very fine and gently placed.

People experience acupuncture needling differently. Most patients feel no or only minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Once the needles are in place, there is no pain felt. Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid and are made from stainless steel. The point is smooth (not hollow with cutting edges like a hypodermic needle) and insertion through the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling. The risk of bruising and skin irritation is less than when using a hollow needle.

Because your doctor carefully sterilizes the needles using the same techniques as for surgical instruments, or uses disposable needles, there is no risk of infection from the treatments.

How many sessions are needed?

The number of acupuncture treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions, one or two treatments a week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required.

Can acupuncture help chronic pain?

Yes, by restoring energy flow and addressing structural issues, it often eases long-term pain.

The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body’s own internal regulating system.