How does it work?

Acupuncture is an age-old healing practice of traditional Chinese medicine in which thin needles are placed at specific points in the body. Acupuncture seeks to release the flow of the body’s vital energy or “Qi” by stimulating points along energy pathways called meridians.

Scientists say the needles cause the body to release endorphins (natural painkillers) and may boost blood flow and change brain activity.  By affecting the part of the brain that governs serotonin, a brain chemical involved with mood, the patient usually feels a state of relaxation. The insertion of the needles can activate a self-healing of the body (immune and homeostatic systems). Acupuncture can also help different systems of the body to improve their regular functions. Muscle tensions and spasms can also be reduced by vasodilation and inactivation of dysfunctional neuromuscular junctions, and tissue repair can be stimulated.

What happens during an acupuncture session?

The appointment is generally an hour, but the first time we meet, we can go as long as 90 minutes because the initial intake involves many questions to gather enough information to reach an ” energetic assessment ” of the symptoms you are presenting. The needles can stay in anywhere from 10-40 minutes (depending on the case and the person’s general constitution).

It is possible to treat the patient lying on his back, stomach or on the side depending on the acupuncture points that are targeted. Your comfort is important and I will make sure that you are comfortable so that you can relax.

Wether it’s a first time appointment, or a follow up appointment, we will always begin by checking in with your current state of health and leave time for questions or comments after the needles are removed.

How many treatments are required?

The number of treatments depends on various factors; the type of problem you are having, wether it’s acute or chronic, how severe your symptoms are, and your overall constitution (age, physical shape, lifestyle habits). I can generalize to say that most treatments, if not too chronic, can take between 2 and 10 treatments to see the best results. I usually suggest to leave one or two weeks between treatments, depending on the symptoms you are presenting.