Acupuncture is the use of very small needles inserted into the body utilizing both TCM and western principles. Acupuncture can be a beneficial part of any treatment plan, and has very well documented beneficial effects on both systemic problems (hormones, fertility, anxiety, depression) and local concerns (pain and injury).

Cupping is also utilized in TCM. Cupping is the use of vacuum or suction cups on areas of the body to affect the tissue underneath. Cupping can be used as a way to target TCM points without needles, or it can be used as a massage therapy for muscle and fascia in the treatment of pain and injury. Cupping can be done moving or stationary. A popular area of treatment with cupping is the back, arms, and on scars.

Fertility and Hormones

Acupuncture has been found extremely helpful in fertility, with both male and female partners, and with or without assisted reproductive technologies. Acupuncture can increase blood flow to ovaries and testes, improving egg and sperm quality. It also improves ovulation rates, implantation rates, and regulates hormones. Other hormonal conditions respond really well to acupuncture as well, including PCOS, menopause, and endometriosis.

Mental Health

Stress affects everything! Anything that reduces stress and increases parasympathetic nervous system tone is going to help any condition, including mental health. Acupuncture has been shown to benefit a variety of neurotransmitters and hormones involved in stress, anxiety and depression, including cortisol, adrenaline, noradrenaline, GABA, glutamate, dopamine, and serotonin.

Sports, Chronic Pain and Injury

Blood is key for any healing process, and acupuncture increases blood flow in the areas the needles are inserted. Fascia is able to be manipulated and released by manipulating the acupuncture needles while they are inserted. Electrostimulation is also amazingly helpful to both muscle tension, as well as the nervous system control of muscle tissue and the sensation of pain. Acupuncture, especially electroacupuncture, has been found to be effective for conditions that involve peripheral neuropathy or nerve pain, like carpal tunnel or diabetic neuropathy.