Acupuncture is one of the treatment modalities of Oriental Medicine. Acupuncture is a method of healing developed in China at least 2,000 years ago and involves stimulation of specific parts of the body by penetrating the skin with fine, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation at specific locations shown to be effective in the treatment of specific health problems. The sensation of their insertion is a quick, slight prick. Some people feel nothing at all. Others liken it to a mosquito bite.

Acupuncture can be helpful in a variety of chronic or periodic painful conditions in men, women and children. These include low back pain, neuralgia, headaches, premenstrual and peri-menopausal syndromes, and the pain resulting from arthritis and rheumatism.

Painful disorders that are difficult to treat using Western medicine, such as the various fibromyalgia syndromes, trigeminal neuralgia and regional pain syndromes, may also respond well to acupuncture.Acute and chronic pain from injury or continuing pain after surgery are additional indications for evaluation by Oriental medicine.

Acupuncture is used as an adjunct in the treatment of asthma, allergies, and  sinus problems, as well as in the acute symptoms of viral upper respiratory infections.

When treated at an early stage, cold or flu symptoms may be completely eliminated. Acupuncture is also finding increasing use in various chronic viral illnesses which cause a variety of symptoms and fatigue.

Other conditions responsive to acupuncture include repetitive motion injuries such as those suffered by typists and musicians, and muscular aches and pains from overwork or strained muscles.

In addition, those suffering from Bell's palsy, chronic disorders of diarrhea or constipation, and some inflammatory disorders of the digestive system can be relieved.

Hormonal imbalances in men and women as well as complex symptom patterns that resist easy classification are another area where Oriental diagnosis should be considered. Since acupuncture uses no toxic chemicals, it is very safe and effective way for menopausal women to defeat their uncomfortable symptoms. Millions of menopausal women have maintained their health with Chinese herbs for countless generations in China and Asia. We use many effective herbal remedies in conjunction with the acupuncture treatment. These remedies are safe, inexpensive, and effective in treating all symptoms of menopause.

Side effects from chemotherapy and radiation and adjunctive treament of cancers and malignancies may also benefit from regular treatment. Complications from cancer surgery, such as pain and lymphedema, are another area where acupuncture, moxabustion and plant derived medicines can be useful.

The World Health Organization has also listed conditions which have proven to be effectively treated by acupuncture. A summary of this review is available by clicking here

To ensure your safety, 7 Rivers Acupuncture uses only sterilized, prepackaged, disposable acupuncture needles. The art of experienced practice combined with the effectiveness of treatments provide our patients with a pleasant and beneficial experience.

Do you have more questions about acupuncture? Feel free to investigate my frequently asked questions page or contact me, if you were unable to find the answer to any questions you might have.