Acupuncture is a form of treatment that involves inserting a very thin needles through a person’s skin at specific points on the body to various depths. Your Massage Therapist has extensive post graduate training in acupuncture. Acupuncture can treat any ailments; however your Massage therapist can apply acupuncture only in regards to Massage Therapy scope of practice.
How acupuncture works scientifically remains unclear. There are theories supporting neurological effect, cardiovascular effect and balancing vital energy. Even though there are many theories and scientists cannot agree on one, the acupuncture is a highly beneficial form of therapy and is a great “tool” in a Massage Therapists’ toolbox.
Traditional Chinese medicine explains that health is a result of a harmonious balance of life force known as ”qi”. Since acupuncture was found in ancient China, the therapists then explained acupuncture with nature phenomenon (wind, dampness, heat, cold…). Qi is explained as a flow of energy through meridians or channels mapped out in the human body. These meridians and energy are accessible thru acupuncture points in the body. It is believed when there is uninterrupted flow of energy the is no pain or illness. Inserting needles into these points is said to bring energy flow back into proper balance and therefore decrease pain and improve health.
Your Massage therapist will use different combinations of points to address your symptoms best. The combinations of the points can stay the same through your treatment plan or they can change according to your current condition. There might be some discomfort as needles are inserted but they should be pain free as they stay in. There is a potential for very minor bruising at needle site that goes away in day or two. It is recommended to eat prior to acupuncture treatment since it effects blood sugar levels and blood pressure by decreasing both. Patients are in lying position when needles are inserted, and great attention is paid to comfort and safety. Most patients feel very relaxed and refreshed after the acupuncture treatment.
Biljana Bozic, RMT
