Acupuncture

Acupuncture is especially effective for musculoskeletal pain.

Acupuncture is one of the key TCM practice modalities. There are 365 basic acupuncture points along twelve primary channels, eight extraordinary channels, and fifteen collaterals. Over the centuries, more than 2,500 points have been identified. Acupuncture is the art and science of manipulating the flow of Qi and Blood through the body’s channels – the invisible aqueduct system that transports the Essential Substances to the Organ Systems, tissues, and bones. Manipulation of the Qi and Blood is accomplished by the stimulation of specific acupuncture points along the channels where the Essential Substances flow close to the skin’s surface.

The most common acupuncture technique involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation. Insertion of the slender needles goes unnoticed by most and to others feels like a small pinch followed by a sensation of traveling warmth, small ache, heaviness, and the movement of energy. These sensations occur because acupuncture points are equivalent to valves in an aqueduct system. When the points are stimulated they open a valve, so that excess or stagnant Qi or Blood can disperse.

This adjustment of the body’s Qi and Blood can be used to maintain and restore balance between Yin and Yang, alleviate emotional disorders, protect the Organ Systems, moisten tendons and keep the joints healthy. Acupuncture works on both a physical and energetic level, stimulating communication pathways within the body that promote tissue repair and natural pain control.

At Flowing River Clinic, we use only use sterile, single-use, disposable needles and practice in accordance with the National Acupuncture Foundation's Clean Needle Technique requirements and the California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Article 5, Sections 1399.450–1399.452 Standards of Practice. Most people find that acupuncture is not uncomfortable and they enjoy the relaxation and elevation of spirit that accompanies the treatment.