Medical Acupuncture
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that has been practiced for centuries. It’s based on the theory that energy, called chi (say “chee”), flows through and around your body along pathways called meridians.
Acupuncturists believe that illness occurs when something blocks or unbalances your chi. Acupuncture is a way to unblock or influence chi and help it flow back into balance.
Acupuncture is done by putting very thin needles into your skin at certain points on your body. This is done to influence the energy flow. Sometimes heat, pressure, or mild electrical current is used along with needles. Acupuncture at Optimum Joint is used for pain management.
What happens during acupuncture?
Your acupuncture provider will give you an exam and ask questions about your pain and how well you are functioning. The doctor also reviews your overall health.
Then the doctor will look for the places (called points) on your body to access the chi that is blocked or not flowing right. Each of the points relates to certain patterns that will be treated to relive your pain.
After the doctor finds the points, she will quickly tap very thin needles into your skin. She will probably place several needles. Some may be placed deeper than others, depending on what the doctor believes is needed to restore the flow and relieve your pain.
In most cases the treatment takes 30-60 minutes. You may have several visits to complete your treatment. Some people have ongoing visits.
What does it feel like?
You may feel slight pressure when a needle goes in. Most people find that it doesn’t hurt. The area may tingle, feel numb, itch, or be a little sore. Providers believe that this is a sign that the energy flow, or chi, has been accessed.
After the needle is placed, the doctor may roll the needle slightly back and forth.
The visit is comfortable and very relaxing.
Can an OptimumJoint traditional or regenerative medical procedure help me? To find out if you might be a candidate for an OptimumJoint medical treatment procedure, complete our Optimum Joint Procedure Candidate Form online.