What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture began with the discovery that stimulating specific areas on the skin affects the physiological functioning of the body’s processes. It has evolved into a scientific system of healing that restores and maintains health.

Qi is believed to flow through the body along 14 main pathways or channels of energy called meridians. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical technique that restores balance to the body through the insertion of tiny needles at specific points along meridians. Reinstating the positive flow of Qi (ch’i or qi) balances yin and yang. When yin and yang are in harmony, Qi flows freely. However, obstruction of Qi along one or more meridians can result in sickness, injury, and even depression. Meridians and energy flow are accessible through more than 350 acupuncture points. Inserting needles into these points in various combinations, acupuncture practitioners believe energy flow is restored.

In contrast, a Western explanation of acupuncture incorporates modern concepts of neuroscience. Acupuncture points stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue by stimulating bloodflow and increasing white-cell production.

Acupuncture can treat pain associated with migraines, back pain, asthma, severe menstrual cramps, even fluctuations in mood and emotions. Acupuncture is used both to treat illness or acute pain and as preventive medicine and to treat chronic and acute pain. Useful as a stand-alone treatment, it is also being used in conjunction with other healing modalities. For example, Full Circle partners with other health care practitioners in Chiropractic and Massage Therapy to provide the highest degree of patient care possible. In addition, Full Circle can work collaboratively with your health care provider.

Who can benefit from Acupuncture? 

Almost everyone can benefit from acupuncture. Even when there are no symptoms, acupuncture helps maintain a healthy immune system and works to prevent symptoms from occurring and reoccurring. In addition, acupuncture may offer symptomatic relief for a variety of diseases and conditions, including low back pain, headaches, fibromyalgia, migraines, and osteoarthritis. In addition, research shows acupuncture can help manage postoperative dental pain and alleviate chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. It also appears to offer relief for chronic menstrual cramps and tennis elbow.