Today in most western cultures acupuncture is considered a "new alternative" medicine. In reality Acupuncture is over 5,000 years old. Very basically, Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine needles, on the body's surface, in order to influence physiological functioning of the body. The acupuncture points are specific locations where the Meridians (pathyways running up and down the body) come to the surface of the skin, and are easily accessible by "needling," Moxibustion, and Acupressure. The connections between them ensure that there is an even circulation of Qi, a balance between Yin and Yang. Energy constantly flows up and down these pathways. When pathways become obstructed, deficient, excessive, or just unbalanced, Yin and Yang are said to be thrown out of balance. This causes illness. Acupuncture is said to restore the balance.

Acupuncturists needles vary in length, width of shaft, and shape of head. Our clinic uses small, fine, disposible wires. They are used once and disgarded in accordance with medical biohazard regulations and guidlines.

In most cases acupuncture is painless, but a sensation, felt by the patient, is desired. This sensation, which is not pain, is called deqi (pronounced dah-chee). Once again, techniques are carefully chosen based on the ailment.

Acupuncture is a physical treatment modality which has been shown to be successful for a variety of conditions, particularly osteoarthritis of the knee.  In our offices it is typically used in conjunction with other physical treatment modalities, and reserved for those cases where it would likely be most beneficial and when other physical modalities are contraindicated.