What Is Acupuncture?

I get a lot of questions from people in and out of my office about acupuncture. Everyone has heard of it but very few people have a good grasp on what it is and how it can help them.  By far, my favorite questions is: “What is acupuncture?” This is so important to understand if you are considering trying acupuncture. The simplest way I can explain it is this: Acupuncture speaks to the body in it’s own language to get it to heal itself. And before you ask, no the needles don’t hurt. Once they are placed, you usually can’t feel them at all. Even infants and small children can tolerate acupuncture!

Acupuncture can and will induce your body’s healing process when healing is necessary. It will also help to keep you healthy and in a state of wellness to prevent problems in the future. Sounds great, right?! This is an example of true healthcare instead of just “sick care” which is a model of medicine where we treat when problems arise without focusing on prevention. 

But wait, there’s more! Acupuncture’s biggest side effect is a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Not a day or two after treatment, not even after a few sessions, but right now! Within a few minutes of starting the treatment you go straight into “zen mode”. We override your flight or fight stress response and throw you right into relax and heal. Many of my patients consider their appointments scheduled nap time with it being their most rejuvenating naps they have ever experienced. Trust me when I say, this is a very good thing and yes you need it!

Your “needle nap” is one of the most important aspects of acupuncture since so many of our physical health issues are caused in part, or even primarily due to the way we deal with stressors in our life. (Hint: we’ve become terrible at dealing with stress and everything about our modern society supports our terrible stress habits.) That’s a whole other can of worms, which I would love to open and unpack with you when we get together for your next acupuncture treatment! Call today for your next appointment at River Point Family Acupuncture! (715) 716-5909. Remember, if you are new to acupuncture and have more questions I do free consults and would love to sit down with you and see if acupuncture is a right fit for you!

With wishes of wellness,

Dr. Wasson