Acupuncture is an ancient therapy that makes use of needles to treat illness and dysfunctions of the body. The goal is to create balance within a patient. This involves promoting good circulation of blood, fluids and ki (also called qi and pronounced “chee”). A disturbance in this circulation will bring about the illness or dysfunction. The origin of this disturbance, for example, might be stress, illness or injury.

The approach to treatment is to use acupuncture needles. However good effect can be achieved with massage or laser to the acupuncture points. Needles are sterile, self contained in plastic wrapping and single use only – thrown away after use on each patient. Pain is rarely experienced and should not discourage the patient from trying this wonderful therapy. During treatment, needles are placed in the local area of concern, and some may be placed distally to give the patient a whole body boost. The latter may be indicated, for example, if the patient has had the pain for a long time and their body is rundown or deficient.