The doctor uses needles for treatment of the guest[/caption]At ALIGNOLOGY & Associates, our skilled Acupuncturists practice an extremely gentle yet effective style of Acupuncture. Many of our guests find the treatment to be a deeply relaxing experience. Acupuncture involves the shallow insertion of very thin needles into specific points on the body based on the pattern of imbalances. The needles are sterile, single use only and are recognized by the FDA as an approved medical tool.
Traditional Chinese Medicine dates back to 600 A.D. and includes the practice of acupuncture. Acupuncture is accepted by the National Institute of Health for a wide variety of medical conditions, including neuro-musculo-skeletal problems, internal medicine and mental health conditions.
Acupuncture balances the nervous system and increases circulation making it easier for the body to heal itself without the use of medication. Acupuncture works by stimulating points along the body. When thin, sterilized needles are inserted into these acupuncture points, they help balance out the body to restore health. The points chosen coincide with major nerve centers. The needles stimulate the nerves, causing them to release feel-good chemicals known as endorphins.
People in pain often have low levels of endorphins and a release of those endorphins can suppress the sensation of pain. The points are also located near trigger points, spots on the body where pain radiates away from the center when pressed. Acupuncture may ease the stress on trigger points thereby lessening pain in that area.
As Acupuncture has grown in popularity, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institute of Health (NIH) have performed clinical studies on the effects of acupuncture. These organizations have developed the following theories of how Acupuncture works in easy to understand, modern scientific terms.
Strengthens the Immune System
Acupuncture has been shown to raise blood levels of white blood cells, prostaglandins, gamma globulin, and overall antibody levels, suggesting that acupuncture has the effect of strengthening the body’s immune system. Subsequently it can be highly effective for the management and even reversal of autoimmune conditions.
Increases Blood Circulation
Acupuncture has been shown to increase circulation in the body, especially to the areas adjacent to points being needled. The body will release vasodilators in response to Acupuncture, which is useful in healing injuries, minimizing scar tissues, promoting cell growth and organ function, etc.
Stimulates the Release of Endorphins
Acupuncture is extremely effective in pain management because it stimulates the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. Endorphins are believed to be 10x stronger than morphine, the strongest pharmaceutical painkiller available.
Raises Levels of Important Neurotransmitters
Acupuncture has been shown to affect neurotransmitter levels such as the “happy hormone” serotonin. Low serotonin levels are associated with insomnia, depression, sugar cravings, obesity, addiction, and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). By raising serotonin to normal levels, Acupuncture can prevent or fight off these problems. It can also explain why people feel great after a treatment.
