Acupuncture is the insertion of hair thin filiform needles into designated “points” on your body. The acupuncturist determines where to insert needles based on their pattern diagnosis.

Does acupuncture hurt? This is commonly asked question and the answer depends on the individual. The initial insertion is quick and relatively painless for most people. The needles are as this as human hair; however, everyone’s sensitivity is different. Acupuncture may be painful during some visits and you may not feel the insertions the next time. I have found that the most sensitivity occurs when a patient has pain and inflammation or is experiencing emotional upset.

The use of acupuncture needles is to help open up your channels in your body to get things flowing again. Think of your internal body as a river or a highway. Imagine how a river flows freely without debris. Imagine how nice it is to drive on a freeway without traffic. Now imagine if a river or a highway becomes slowed down or blocked. This creates stagnation and disharmony in your internal system. For example, this disharmony may present as cold feet, itchy eyes, or chronic pain. The use of acupuncture needles helps rebalance the disharmony within your internal system.