Clinical Services - Acupuncture

Why acupuncture?

Auricular (ear) acupuncture is a safe, simple, effective, non-verbal treatment that is used in clinics and treatment centers throughout the world. It is an effective treatment for stress, addiction, depression, insomnia, craving, detoxification, trauma, and physical pain. It is now offered by the US military for relief from a number of conditions including traumatic stress and chronic pain.

Auricular acupuncture is a regulated protocol that involves up to five points in each ear, and provides a (drug-free) deep sense of relaxation and harmony while promoting healing and recovery. Three of the five stimulated points are thought to strengthen the liver, kidneys and lungs, which are key organs in the elimination of toxins. Additionally the treatment aims to boost the level of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that are associated with increased feelings of well-being (similarly to exercise, love, and excitement). This enables one to step outside of difficult emotional mind-states and instead experience the world through a new lens.

What does the treatment involve?

Very fine, sterile needles are inserted into five key points in the ear. There may be a slight pinching sensation as the needles are inserted, but this quickly subsides. They are left in for up to one hour, during which time the client sits quietly and comfortably, with relaxing music, and without speaking. Between sessions, clients can have acupressure balls (small magnetic seeds) placed on the acupuncture points, to keep them stimulated.

Palpation-based acupuncture

Acupuncture works on the principle of stimulating the body to heal itself. Palpation-based acupuncture utilizes contemporary Japanese acupuncture techniques with classical Chinese theory, combined with the knowledge of modern pathophysiology. It is a complementary, results-oriented, holistic approach to health issues, addressing constitutional imbalances as well as symptomatic complaints. Using small-gauged needles, needling methods are gentle and shallow, providing instant feedback on reflex points.

Benefits of palpation-based acupuncture

• Pain control
• Migraines & headaches
• Chronic Back Pain
• Hormonal imbalances
• Ob/Gyn & Fertility problems
• GI Disorders
• Structural & orthopedic problems
• Cardiac & vascular disorders
• Autoimmune & autonomic disorders
• Mood disorders
• Auricular acupuncture
• Myofascial treatment
• Scar treatments
• Cosmetic acupuncture & Facial rejuvenation
• Prevention & wellness