Acupuncture is one of several modalities within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).  TCM is a system of healthcare that is based on energy rather than the biophysics of the Western Allopathic Medicine model that most of us in the US grew up with.  It has evolved over thousands of years and is rooted in harmony, balance, and change.  It views the person “wholeistically”, body, mind, and spirit together: the components of one.  It is used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness throughout the world and has been endorsed by NIH and the World Health Organization to treat many medical conditions.

Health depends on the flow of energy, or Qi (chee) , abundant free flowing Qi results in optimal health.  It flows through specific pathways, called meridians or channels in the body much like water in a river.  Specific points lie on these channels that can affect the energy flowing through them.  Thus, they can be used successfully in the treatment of pain, prevention of disease, and the maintenance of health.  

Acupuncture is very safe.  Only sterile, disposable needles are used following the Clean Needle Technique in compliance with mandates by the National Commission for Certified Acupuncturists (NCCA).  Going to a Licensed Acupuncturist insures that you are being treated by a fully trained individual who has passed rigorous examination by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).