The ancient medical art of Acupuncture is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It involves the insertion of very fine, sterile, metallic needles on specific points on the body's surface in order to influence physiological functioning of the body.

According to the theory of Chinese Medicine, there is an energy force (Qi) running throughout the body along meridians or special pathways. Qi is comprised of two parts, Yin and Yang (opposite forces that, when balanced, work together). A person's health is influenced by the flow of Qi in the body, in combination with the universal forces of Yin and Yang. If the flow of Qi is disturbed, Yin and Yang become unbalanced, and illness may occur. Acupuncture is said to restore the balance.

Acupuncture is beneficial for the patients with various medical conditions as well as for anybody interested in maintaining their overall health and well being. It may be particularly effective in the treatment of the following conditions:

• Acute and chronic pain.
• Headaches.
• Chronic sinusitis and bronchitis, asthma and allergies.
• Gastritis, constipation.
• Alcohol, nicotine and other dependencies.
• Stress, depression, anxiety, emotional disbalance and neurotic state.
• Peripheral neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, trigeminal neuralgia, Bell’s palsy and stroke sequel.
• Urinary spasms and menstrual cramps.

The average course is 2-3 times per week for 4 weeks. The number of treatments varies, depending on the condition. It can take only a few sessions for acute cases, while some chronic and substance dependency cases may require more frequent and longer treatment courses.

No serious side effects have been associated with acupuncture provided by a well-trained practitioner. The fine needles may leave small black and blue marks on the skin but they should disappear in a few days.

Most patients do not feel the insertion of the very fine acupuncture needles. Some patients may feel a little prick, not unlike a mosquito bite, when a needle touches a nerve ending. When a needle is inserted deeper into the tissue, a patient may experience a feeling of heaviness, numbness, soreness, distension and even electric shock at the site of insertion. This sensation suggests good response to acupuncture.

Most patients with pain and tension feel relaxed and relieved after treatment. Many patients may feel an increase in energy, lightness and buoyancy due to the stimulating effects of acupuncture.