Acupuncture

Acupuncture works with the body's own inherent energy system to promote healing from within. This vital life force or energy is called qi (pronounced chee or ki) and flows through pathways along the body called meridians. Each pathway or meridian is associated with a particular set of physiological functions and a particular organ. The ancient Chinese realised that when the flow of these meridians became obstructed due to trauma, infection, lifestyle, etc. that illness was the result of this weakening of the energy flow; illness in the form of physical, emotional, or spiritual difficulties.

Each meridian has a specific set of "acupoints" mapped along the pathway whereby the practitoner accesses the energy used to help the body heal itself. Electrical charges have been measured at these points, now validating through modern methods what was intuited long ago. Through examination and use of diagnostics such as pulse taking and tongue diagnosis the practitioner designs a treatment using particular points to bring the body's energy flow back into balance to more effectively create a healing atmosphere.

The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture's ability to treat over 43 common disorders.

Acupuncture is non-invasive and relatively pain-free. Needles are about the diameter of a human hair and are flexible, insertion therefore bringing little or no discomfort. Needles are sterile, disposible and used only once making infection of no concern to the patient.

The number and frequency of treatments varies according to the patient’s needs. Generally, acute conditions appear rapidly and are usually successfully treated in short course. Chronic complaints are often more rooted in the body and therefore require more persistence and patience.

Each individual is unique. Some people will experience relief after one treatment, while others may require regular treatment over a period of several weeks.