Acupuncture came on the scene in China 3,500 years ago and has been practiced in the U.S. and around the world far back as the 1860s.

Acupuncture is the insertion of thin sterile needles into specific points to create an effect. Each point has a specific function and will create a different effect when stimulated. Recent research indicates that there is a synergistic effect when multiple points are stimulated simultaneously. This research supports the art of point combinations, choosing what combination of points will have the most positive outcome. There is some sensation when the needles are first inserted, but most people are hardly aware of the needles once they are inserted.

In acupuncture, with a very thin needles can aid muscle recovery and its popularity is on the rise. Acupuncture, the Chinese oldest technique in inserting tiny needles into the skin along specific points on the body to treat musculoskeletal conditions, infertility, respiratory conditions, migraines, neurological problems, muscle tears, sprains, tendinitis, tennis elbow, knee pain, carpal tunnel syndrome etc.

Acupuncture is a treatment based on the principle of TCM. Evidence showed that acupuncture can stimulate the production of substance which are beneficial to health and promote healing.

When you come for an acupuncture treatment, you will have an initial evaluation. It mainly includes examining your tongue, checking the quality of your pulse and general observation of your condition. Sometimes, other parts of the body could be examined. We would also ask you questions about your lifestyle, medical history, general health status, and current complaints. The information obtained contributes to making TCM diagnosis and formulating treatment plan.

During treatment, very fine sterilized and disposable needles are inserted into different acu-points. The needles will be rotated periodically. Sometimes, they are connected to a safe electrical current, which may cause a soothing sensation. Other techniques, such as moxabustion (warm needle) and cupping may be used for certain conditions. After the needle is inserted, a patient usually feels some tingling, distension, heaviness, or electrical sensation at the insertion site or traveling up and down the meridian. Acupuncture is safe and has no significant side effects as compared to other kinds of treatment.

As to how many treatments a patient will need depends on the condition. Acute or temporary problems may just need a few treatments. Chronic conditions may need regular treatments over several months. One may start out with several treatments per week, then decrease to weekly / monthly treatments. Each session usually lasts about 45 to 60 minutes.