Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world, originating in China more than 2,000 years ago. The term acupuncture describes a family of procedures involving stimulation of anatomical points on the body by a variety of techniques. American practices of acupuncture incorporate medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries. The acupuncture technique that has been most studied scientifically involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation. The bodies own electromagnetic energy is used as the needles stimulate that energy to promote healing.

The FDA approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed Practitioners in 1996. The FDA requires that sterile, non-toxic needles be used and that they be labeled for single use by qualified Practitioners only. At Pacific Center of Health we have only ever used and will only ever use single use, disposable needles. It is unethical to re-use needles and we have very strict guidelines about needles in our office.

All acupuncture needles are disposed of in biohazardous waste containers, as also required by law, and are disposed of on a regular basis.

The California Acupuncture Board is responsible for licensing Acupuncturists. Once a Practitioner has completed many years of Acupuncture schooling and have graduated, they sit for the State exam, which includes both a practical and clinical component. Upon successful completion, Acupuncturists are licensed. Like other medical Providers, Acupuncturists must complete CEU’s (continuing educational units) to stay current in their field. They must renew their licenses bi-annually and must possess malpractice insurance.

Acupuncturists are primary treating physicians for workers comp patients and are contracted with many insurance companies and are therefore considered to be a Patients primary healthcare provider.

Anywhere between 6-15 surgical grade stainless steel pins are inserted shallowly into various points on the skin. Patients generally lie down for the procedure, which may last about 15-30 minutes. The entire treatment may last 45 minutes to an hour. We only use very thin, disposable needles and most treatments are painless.

First of all, acupuncture needles are a fraction of the size of a hypodermic (typical “shot”) needle. Five acupuncture needles can easily fit inside the hole of a typical hypodermic needles. Insertion of the needles is basically painless, but sometimes a slight sting can occur (like a mosquito bite) when they are stimulated to release the energy.

This depends on the condition we are treating. Most people are pleasantly surprised that the treatment itself is comfortable. Acupuncture tends to relax people and often leads to a sense of well being and very restful sleep. Some people feel drowsy after treatment and others feel refreshed and invigorated.

Some people experience soreness after treatment. This is noted more commonly for those suffering from chronic pain. Heat, and sometimes ice, tends to soothe any soreness and it is recommended to drink plenty of water to help the body cleanse. This soreness is often caused by lactic acid that is released from the treatment. Many patients report pain relief after this temporary soreness.

The first treatment always takes longer because, like any health Practitioner, the Patients history must be taken and condition assessment must be performed. The first treatment usually takes about 1 ½ hours. Follow-up treatments generally last from 45 minutes to 1 hr.

Some people feel results quickly while others require several treatments before measurable results are attained. A more accurate prognosis can be made in person based on the individual circumstances of the case. For most acute (short term) problems, 4 treatments may be adequate. Many chronic conditions respond well to treatment but require longer term care.

Wear loose comfortable clothing. It is best to have eaten a few hours before treatment so that you are not hungry but not full either.

This is a very good question with two very good answers. The Western answer is that acupuncture stimulates nerves and helps the body achieve homeostasis. Acupuncture routinely improves circulation and reduces inflammation. Acupuncture also facilitates communication between various body systems (hormonal and neurological, for example) and reduces pain.

The other good answer is the ancient Chinese one that is based on the concept of "qi". Qi is energy (which we can sense as heat and movement). It is similar to electricity. Acupuncture balances and moves the qi, which allows the body to function optimally.

Allergies/asthma
Anxiety/Depression
Arthritis/joint issues
Back pain/sciatica
Bladder/kidney problems
Constipation/diarrhea
Colds/influenza
Cough/bronchitis
Dizziness/Vision problems
Drug/Alcohol/Smoking addiction
Fatigue and Fatigue Syndromes
Gastrointestinal disorders
Gynecological disorders
Headaches/migraines
High blood pressure
Infertility
Immune system disorders
Insomnia
Knee pain
Menopausal discomfort
Musculoskeletal disorders
Neck pain/stiffness
Sexual dysfunction
Sinusitis
Skin Problems
Stress/Tension
Tendonitis

Each client is an individual, therefore each body responds differently to massage. The healthy body experiences massage maintenance once a month. Specific areas that have been injured or harbor years of habitual muscle stress and tension may need massage on a minimum average of once a week.

Some techniques of massage are meant to go deeper into a muscle or muscle layer. However, some areas of the body are more sensitive than others. Some practitioners have a talent for feeling how deep they can take a muscle just prior to discomfort, but it is always best to communicate with your practitioner on how much pressure you are willing to take when in need of deeper work.

This answer depends on the type of massage given. Most massages leave a person feeling relaxed and carefree. Yet others can provide a new burst of energy to the body system. It's best to talk with your therapist after the massage to see how your body responded and what to expect during future sessions.

There are specific techniques that alleviate cranial, neck and shoulder tension. Because this muscle group area is known to cause headaches, by relieving tightness in this area, many people have obtained headache relief.