At the very core of this ancient medicine is the philosophy that Qi (pronounced "chee"), or life energy, flow throughout the body. Qi helps to protect the body from illness, pain and disease. A person’s health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance f Qi. Qi circulates through pathways called meridians. There are 14 main meridians and each is connected to a specific organ. Meridian pathways are like rivers. Where a river flows it transports life-giving water that nourishes the land, plants and people. In this same way, meridians transport life giving Qi to nourish and energize every cell, organ, gland, and tissue.

There are many things that can affect the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, diet, accidents, or excessive activity can lead to imbalance or blockage of Qi.

Under normal circumstances the body can naturally bounce back and return to a state of health. When the disruption of Qi is excessive, or if the body is weak, then illness, pain or disease can follow.

A full health history will be taken during your initial exam. Your acupuncturist will ask several questions regarding your health and lifestyle. They will most likely feel your pulse and look at your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete and comprehensive Chinese medical diagnosis of where the Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. A typical acupuncture treatment will usually last 45 to 90 minutes.

There are 12 different pulse positions that your acupuncturist will palpate on each wrist. Each position corresponds to a specific organ and meridian. There are many qualities that your acupuncturist will be looking for in your pulse that reflect overall health.

The tongue is a map of the body. It is a clear reflection of the general health of the organs and internal systems. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.

The number of treatments that one may need will vary from person to person. Some patients experience immediate relief; others may need a series of treatments to achieve results. As a general rule chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes.

Where the acupuncture needle is inserted, you may experience a dull ach, numbness or heaviness. Often times one will experience a feeling of energy spreading or moving around the needle. This is called the "Qi" sensation. All of these reactions are a good sign that the point is being activated and that the treatment is working.

The sensation caused by an acupuncture needle varies. Some people may feel a very slight pain as the needle is inserted, but most people feel no pain at all. The needles are very small about the size of a cat’s whisker or a human hair.

Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free holistic therapy, yielding no side effects except a feeling of relaxation and well-being. There is very little danger of infection from the needles as they are always sterile, single use needles that are then discarded.