What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient system of Eastern Medicine with a history spanning thousands of years. Based on countless observations and time-tested theories, pathways of energy (also known as meridians) were mapped on the human body. Meridians can be likened to freeways - sometimes cars move too fast, too slow, in the wrong direction, or there's a traffic jam. Acupuncture needles then act as traffic controllers, helping the body regulate its own energy flow until everything runs smoothly again.

Acupuncture needles are as fine as human hair. Most people who have had acupuncture would describe it as virtually painless or perhaps feel a slight prick as the needle goes in. The sensations that follow range from nothing at all to mild tingling, slight numbness/achiness, or electrical pulsations in areas distant from the site of insertion. All these sensations usually subside once the needles are removed. Additional remedies such as Chinese herbal medicine, cupping, moxabustion, gua sha, and infrared therapy may be utilized to enhance the treatment. 

The National Institutes of Health and Acupuncture Evidence Project have identified the following list of conditions acupuncture effectively treats. Please note there are plenty of other conditions that centuries of empirical data have shown acupuncture also treats but for which there is little or no modern Western research.

  • Musculoskeletal: headaches, back pain, neck pain, knee pain, tendinitis, arthritis

  • Neurological: sciatica, migraines, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia

  • Reproductive: PMS, infertility, morning sickness, menopause

  • Digestive: irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea

  • Ears, eyes, nose, throat: allergies, asthma, sinusitis, TMJ pain

  • Addiction: smoking, drugs, alcohol, food

  • Post-operative and chemotherapy side-effects

At Ahimsa Wellness we try to demystify Traditional Chinese Medicine by thoroughly explaining the "what" and "why" behind each process. You will receive individualized attention and an in-depth treatment plan that addresses you as a whole, not just a list of unrelated complaints. True health can be achieved when the body is no longer impeded in its ability to heal itself.