HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?
There are 2 Theories:

• Traditional Chinese Acupuncture
  There is a theory that the body has an energy force running through it called Qi. A person’s health is influenced by the flow of Qi in the body. If the flow of Qi is unbalanced, interrupted or insufficient, negative symptoms occur. Yin and Yang are two opposite forces that compose the Qi, and when balanced work together to maintain health. Any upset in balance results in natural calamities and disease. Acupuncture is able to create balance between Yin and Yang in the Qi.
• Modern Science
  Rationalizes that acupuncture results in a release of chemicals. These chemicals stimulate the nervous system to aid in the healing process and stimulate the body’s natural pain relieving chemicals called endorphins. Acupuncture helps to restore energy and biochemical balance, which reduces inflammation, and promotes physical and emotional well-being.

Contemporary Medical Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles over carefully selected areas of the body where nerves and their receptors are found. This stimulates numerous responses in the central nervous system (scientifically documented), that are of potential benefit for many conditions. It works by activating the natural pain control and healing mechanisms of the body. It improves local circulation and muscle nutrition, restoring muscle strength and decreasing pain. It normalizes nerve communication at many levels of the central nervous system, resulting in better hormonal, visceral and muscular activity, and a higher sense of well being and relaxation. - Canadian Contemporary Acupuncture Association

Both theories will agree that Acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural healing abilities.

IS ACUPUNCTURE APPROPRIATE FOR ME?
Acupuncture is used to treat several ailments involving musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, respiratory, psychological, gynaecological,or dermatological issues.

WHAT TO EXPECT:
Most patients feel only minimal discomfort as the needles are inserted while some feel no sensation at all. Treatments are generally very relaxing. Relief may be immediate or occur within a few hours, or after a few days. Only sterile disposable needles are used.

For more information please visit the Canadian Contemporary Acupuncture Association website at www.contemporaryacupuncture.ca.