Irvine Spine and Wellness Center Offers Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine used for thousands of years, which is now among the fasted growing health care methods in America. The word itself derives from the root ‘acus’, meaning needle, and ‘puncture’ meaning to pierce or break through (of the skin). It is known to have been used since at least the Stone Age, although there is evidence it dates back to between 5000-7000 years ago as a medical treatment.

How does Acupuncture work?

Although its specific details and procedures can be quite complex, the basic idea behind Acupuncture is relatively understandable. According to Acupuncture Theory, there are fourteen major energy channels that run through the human body, covering every part of the body inside and out. Each is called a ‘meridian’. Every person’s life energy, or ‘Qi’ (sometimes also spelled Chi) flows through each of these meridians. Whenever a blockage or misdirection of the Qi flow occurs, it manifests itself as physical or mental pain and disease. A trained acupuncture doctor fixes this by inserting very thin needles into specific points along the meridians (known as ‘acupoints’). This stimulates the body to help restore its previous balance and open up any blockages. In case of Auricular Acupuncture (Ear Acupuncture) the ear is seen as a representative of the entire body. There are 180 acupoints located here, each of which represents a specific part of the body. For example, when a patient experiences shoulder pain, the shoulder point on their ear will become extra sensitive. Stimulating this point will help in relieving the pain. Both needles and ear seeds are used for treating the ear.

What is Acupuncture good for?

Acupuncture is a great alternative treatment for any kind of pain, including but not limited to headaches, arthritis, sciatica, lower back pain, joint pain, disc problems, fibromyalgia, menstruation pain, ulcers, sports injuries, and cramps, as well as helping relieve acne, skin problems, asthma, and much more. Many people use acupuncture on a regular basis to optimize their health even if they don’t have any specific complaints at the time (namely to boost their immune systems or increase energy). Acupuncture has also been used for rejuvenation and beauty purposes.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

People with previous experience receiving medical injections and shots sometimes are fearful acupuncture treatment will be a similar uncomfortable, painful experience. However the thin, fine, flexible acupuncture needles, usually around the same size as a human hair, are quite a different experience than stiff, hollow, and much thicker medical hypodermic needles . Indeed the needles produce nothing more than a slight tingling sensation. Most new patients typically are surprised at how comfortable and relaxing the acupuncture experience. For those fearful of needles, a specialized laser device, Acupuncture seeds and special magnets maybe used as an alternative to needles.

Who can receive Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is safe and useful for adults, children, and the elderly. As long as small children are willing to stay still while they are being treated, they are good candidates for acupuncture. Ear acupuncture specifically is often used for children.

What should I expect in a typical treatment?

Each acupuncture treatment will typically last between 30 to 45 minutes, with 10 to 15 tiny, hair-like needles usually being inserted. Depending on the condition, it may take any where between a few to 12 visits to complete a treatment while certain chronic diseases may require two or three sets of treatment. The acupuncturists may additionally use other methods, such as seeds, laser therapy, moxa (heat therapy), or cupping depending on the specific case.

Call today to schedule your appointment.