Acupuncture

Needling

​There are a wide range of techniques used when needling, with needles that vary in diameter and length. Some are painless; some are meant to illicit a reaction. The number of needles we use also varies by treatment. We only use sterile, single-use disposable needles in our clinic.

Cupping

Cupping is used to separate the layers of fascia and increase blood flow to the affected area. Cups are placed on the skin where a vacuum pressure draws the skin into the cup. They can be left in place (static cupping) or dragged along the skin (dynamic cupping) as a more aggressive technique. They can result in dark purple cupping marks, an indication that stagnate material has been stuck in the tissue and can now rise to the surface to be circulated out of the body.

Electroacupuncture

Also known as e-stim or EA, electroacupuncture uses electricity to stimulate healing and pain reduction. After alligator clips are attached to needles inserted at specific acupuncture points, a small current will be sent between them, affecting both the specific points and the meridian channel connecting them. Depending on the protocol needed, you may feel a slight “static” sensation or fast muscle twitches during the treatment; the treatment can range from 10 to 30 minutes in length.

Gua Sha

Gua sha is a type of myofascial release, using a tool to “scrape” along the fascia and separate restricted tissue. It helps to increase local blood flow, allowing for faster recovery of range of motion, pain, and function. As with cupping, it can result in dark purple gua sha marks, an indication that stagnate material has been stuck in the tissue and can now rise to the surface to be circulated out of the body.

Moxabustion

Moxibustion combines heat and the herbal properties of mugwort to affect specific acupuncture points on the body by burning the herb close to the skin. This can be done in the form of moxa sticks or moxa trays attached to an acupuncture needle. It is used to increase circulation, warming the body, and is particularly useful with digestive and menstrual issues and pain arising from damp cold weather.

Ear Acupuncture

As known as auricular acupuncture, ear acupuncture uses points in the ear to affect different parts of the body. It is often used for to alleviate stress, dizziness, allergies, and pain. It can be less intrusive than needles, as often beads, seeds, or tacks are used. These can be worn home by the client and self-stimulated as needed over a few days.