Orleans Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a therapeutic treatment method used to encourage natural healing, reduce or relieve pain and improve function and well-being. Acupuncture is safe and effective and is often successfully used as an alternative to medication.

Acupuncture is one of the oldest and commonly used healing systems in the world. Originating in China over 3,500 years ago, there are as many as 2,000 acupuncture points on the human body. The points are mostly located on 12 main pathways or meridians. These meridians are believed to be the pathways of energy or Qi (chi). The Chinese believe when there is a blockage along the pathways we become unhealthy. Acupuncture is used to maintain the flow of Qi along the meridians, and as a result maintain or restore our bodies balance and good health. Western research has now confirmed that acupuncture affects the body in a number of different ways:

• Analgesic effect by stimulating the production of the body’s own painkillers called “endorphins”
• Homeostatic effect by balancing the body’s parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems
• Enhancing the body’s immune system
• Sedative effect
• Improved motor recovery through local and spinal reflex loops
• Anti-inflammatory effects

Very fine needles are inserted through the skin and tissue. There is no injection of any substance and the treatment causes minimal discomfort. It is used to maintain the flow of Qi along the meridians, and as a result maintain or restore our bodies balance and good health.

What does it treat?

There is really nothing that acupuncture does not treat. In 1995, the World Health Organization listed 20 conditions that acupuncture had been proven to treat effectively from sciatica and tennis elbow to depression and malposition of a fetus during pregnancy. They also listed 60 other conditions where early studies were very promising including stiff neck, infertility and bronchial asthma. At St Mary Physiotherapy we use Acupuncture within the scope of practice permitted by The College Of Physiotherapy Of Ontario.

What are the side effects?

One of the advantages of acupuncture is the lack of side effects. Occasionally, patients will sustain a small bruise after treatment. Most patients however, find the treatments relaxing and cause minimal discomfort. Occasionally, clients will feel thirsty or tired post-treatment so it is advisable not to plan a big work out following a session. It is also advisable not to skip a meal or indulge in alcohol or sedatives prior to treatment. Pain medications may be taken as required.