Acupuncture is a natural art and a holistic therapy that involves the use of fine needles, heat, and/or electricity, to stimulate various active points on the body. It is effective in improving general health by preventing and alleviating pain and disease.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there exists a continuous generation and flow of Qi (pronounced: chee), the life force or vital energy, throughout the body. Qi flows rhythmically and uninterrupted in paths, or meridians, which are traceable on the skin. Obstruction or stagnation of Qi can be caused by internal and external factors including diet, emotional distress, weather, fatigue, injury, or degeneration of the body. This causes the deterioration or impairment of organs or systems and the imbalance of the body state; the result of which is disease and pain. Acupuncture stimulates specific points along the meridians to remove the stagnation of Qi, revitalizing the designated body organs or any other affected areas. As the continuous flow of Qi and the body's energetic balance is restored, the body returns to normal and rids itself of disease.
Most people feel little, if any, pain. This is mainly because the needles used are extremely fine, slightly wider than a single strand of hair. Some patients do feel some cramping, heaviness, distention, or a tingling sensation either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridian. The degree of sensation varies. Certain acupoints are more sensitive than others, and some patients may be more sensitive than others. In any case, if you experience any discomfort, it is usually mild.
Needles are made of stainless steel. They are far different from the hypodermic needles that are used in giving injections; no medicines are put on them or injected through them. The needles vary in length and are commonly from 1/8 inch to 2 inches. Some longer needles may be required for special cases. ?
For your protection, Yin Yang Chinese Acupuncture Center always uses pre-sterilized, single-use, disposable needles--eliminating the risks of contamination and infection.