What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a natural healing modality, and is a component of TCM or Traditional Chinese Medicine. Although relatively new in the United States, the TCM medical system has been around for thousands of years. It is a more holistic system when compared to the western model, integrating mind, body, and spirit. Many people in the West are finding TCM treatments to be a viable alternative or compliment to their regular medical treatment. In the Chinese Medical system, the body is made up of channels, or meridians, through which your “qi” or life energy flows. Disease happens when these channels are blocked, stagnating its energy flow, and causing the body to fall out of balance. Stagnant energy can manifest in many ways, both emotional and physical. Acupuncture corrects the body’s imbalance by unblocking these energy channels and allowing for the body to balance itself out.  The way in which this is done is though fine, sterile needles, which are inserted at specific points on the body.  

You should leave an hour and half for you first acupuncture visit. I will begin by asking you to complete a comprehensive intake form. This will document your medical history as well as your current state of health. It is important not to leave anything out, as the TCM system believes that everything is interconnected. An ailment, accident, or upset from years ago could still affect your health today. I will examine your pulse and tongue, and follow with a discussion on my diagnosis. After we have discussed treatment, I will have you lie comfortably on your back or stomach, and insert 10-20 needles at specific points on the body. I will leave you lying down, with the needles in place for 15-20 minutes. This will be a time to relax and let the body repair itself. Many patients find it the perfect time for a short nap. 

Many patients are worried when attending their first time visits that acupuncture will be painful, or similar to a hypodermic needle injection. This is not the case. Acupuncture needles are thin, and are barely felt upon insertion. As energy pathways are unblocked, there may be a sensation of movement such a tingling or pressure. This is a sign that the treatment is working and most patients find the process relaxing once they are used to it.   

Yes. Acupuncturists are required to study human anatomy and training in Clean Needle Technique. I have received extensive education and passed the comprehensive National Board Examinations administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). I am licensed by the states of New York and New Jersey. As required by law, I use pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles to ensure your complete safety. 

In the same way that disease takes time to develop, restoring the body’s balance also requires time and cumulative treatments. Although relief is often felt after the first visit, acute treatments require three to six visits, and chronic conditions may require more depending on the ailment.   

Muscle and bone injuries
Sports injuries, Muscle pain, Back, neck and shoulder pain, Leg, ankle and foot pain, Arm, wrist and hand pain, Knee pain, Hip pain, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Tennis Elbow, Repetitive strain injuries, Jaw pain (TMJ), Dental pain, Sciatica, Arthritis, Tendonitis, Myofascial pain syndrome

Digestive issues
Headaches and migraines, Postoperative pain, Digestive Issues & Nausea, Heartburn, Acid Reflux,
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Chronic indigestion, Chronic loose stools or constipation, colitis, Peptic ulcer,
​ Acute and chronic gastritis, Morning sickness, Nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, ulcers
​ Mental and Emotional Issues
Stress, Anxiety, Insomnia, Depression Respiratory Complaints Sinusitis, Allergies, bronchitis, sinusitis, sore throat, laryngitis, colds and flu
Neurological Disorders Post-stroke recover, Bell's Palsy & Trigeminal Neuralgia, movement disorders, Asthma
Urinary and Reproductive Disorders
Cystitis, menstrual cramps, irregular or heavy periods, infertility, menopausal symptoms.
Immune Function
Recurrent infections, supportive treatment for cancer and AIDS patients.

Addictions 
​Addictions to nicotine, alcohol and drugs.

Eye and Ear Disorders
Tinnitus, Meniere's disease.