How Does Acupuncture Work?

Nikola Tesla showed us that everything is made of and radiates energy. He proved that magnetic energy is the basis for all phenomena in the Universe. This subtle form of energy supports, shapes, energizes and activates our body, mind and spirit. For the past 5000 years practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine refer to this intelligent energy, or “life-force,” as Qi (pronounced “chee”). In addition to ancient Chinese culture numerous other cultures have described this life-force energy by various names: prana, baraka, pneuma, spirit, wakan, material force, vital force, orgone, ether and ruach.

What is Qi?

Qi is the root of a human being.

Qi is the vital energy in all living things, from the tallest tree to the smallest cell.

Qi is a combination of energies mixed together from our food, air and inherited constitution.

Qi provides the power to accomplish everyday activities.

Qi is necessary for growth, development, movement, maintenance of body function and temperature, provides protection against illness and disease and provides for the overall regulation of our body.

Therefore our health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi.  

What are meridians?

Wherever water flows it carries water which provides nourishment and sustenance for all life on our planet. In a similar fashion acupuncture meridians are like rivers of energy where Qi flows throughout the body. Qi flows through meridians is an invisible current thus energizing, nourishing and supporting every cell, tissue, muscle, organ and gland in the body.

What causes illness and disease to occur?

The stresses of daily life affect the quality and flow of Qi. Different stresses affect meridians and organs in different ways, thus disrupting or blocking the flow of Qi. For example, if a garden hose is blocked it cannot provide an adequate supply of water for the plants. Eventually the plants will be unable to grow, thrive, blossom and reach their full potential. Likewise a blockage in the meridians will effect the flow and supply of Qi required to support and nourish the sells, tissues, muscles, organs and glands. These blockages then manifest into various signs and symptoms of disease and illness. Over time the body becomes weakened and unbalanced, thus compromising it;s natural self-healing abilities. The body then becomes more susceptible to pain, disease, stress, anxiety and poor health.

How does an acupuncturist diagnose illness?

An acupuncturist develops keen diagnostic skills to effectively evaluate the quality, quantity and balance of Qi flowing within the body.

Why acupuncture?

Today acupuncture is receiving wide acceptance as a respected, valid and effective form of health care. When most people think about acupuncture they are familiar with its use for pain control. However, acupuncture has a proven track record for treating a variety of circulatory, endocrine and systemic conditions. Acupuncture and modern medicine, when used together, have the potential to support, strengthen and nurture the body toward health and well-being.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes! Acupuncture has been used for well over 5000 years to help billions of people get well and stay healthy without drugs or surgery. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Health Canada have approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed acupuncture practitioners.

Are the acupuncture needles disposable?

Acupuncturists follow strict safety guidelines and use only sterile, non-toxic needles labeled for single use only.

Do acupuncture needles hurt?

Naturally many people associate needle pain with their past experience with hypodermic needles. You can fit up to 10 acupuncture needles inside the tip of one hypodermic needle. Acupuncture needles are tiny, thin and flexible, about the size of a cat’s whisker. Once the needles are inserted, some patients experience a mild ache or tingling, along with a mild sensation of fullness. There is generally an increased sense of relaxation. These are all quite normal and suggest the treatment is working.

How many treatments will I need?

Each patient is different. The initial phase of the treatment plan is usually between 4-10 visits. The length of the treatment depends on how long the condition has been present and how quickly the patient responds to treatment. Generally if a condition is more acute patients respond more quickly than if it’s a chronic condition.

What education does an acupuncturist receive?

Education and training programs range from 2-4 years, including internship. Course lengths vary depending is the student is studying to become proficient in only acupuncture or in all the modalities of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Does my insurance cover acupuncture?

Yes! Most of the major and minor insurance carriers in Canada allow for the treatment of acupuncture when provided by a licensed acupuncturist. Members of MARA receive the designation Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac.). This accreditation is recognized by insurance carriers in order to register for direct billing of acupuncture treatments.