Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a full system of medicine.
Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) as effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems.
Around the world, including in China, Korea, and Japan, acupuncture is used as primary care medicine. This is because it can be used to treat the whole body at a systemic level. When combined with the advancements of Western Medicine, people get the most benefit to cover all their healthcare needs.
At Fort Collins Family Acupuncture, we use acupuncture at specific point locations as a way to boost your body’s natural painkillers and increase blood flow. This works to alleviate pain as well as treat other physical or mental conditions of illness.
Conditions Appropriate for Acupuncture Therapy
Digestive
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Hyperacidity
- Indigestion
Emotional
● Anxiety
● Depression
● Insomnia
● Nervousness
● Neurosis
Eye-Ear-Nose-Throat
● Cataracts
● Gingivitis
● Poor vision
● Tinnitus
● Toothache
Gynecological
● PCOS, Fibroids, Endometriosis
● Menopausal symptoms
● Premenstrual syndrome
Miscellaneous
● Addiction control
● Athletic performance
● Blood pressure regulation
● Chronic fatigue
● Immune system tonification
● Stress reduction
Musculoskeletal
● Arthritis
● Back pain
● Muscle cramping
● Muscle pain/weakness
● Neck pain
● Sciatica
Neurological
● Headaches
● Migraines
● Bladder dysfunction
● Parkinson’s disease
● Postoperative pain
● Stroke
Respiratory
● Asthma
● Bronchitis
● Common cold
● Sinusitis
● Smoking cessation
● Tonsilitis
Source: World Health Organization United Nations. “Viewpoint on Acupuncture.” 19 19 (revised).
How does it work?
Acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system to release chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals either change the experience of pain or release other chemicals, such as hormones, that influence the body’s self-regulating systems. The biochemical changes may stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being through three primary means: Conduction of electromagnetic signals, activation of opioid systems, changes in brain chemistry sensation and involuntary body functions.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes, acupuncture is safe when performed by a competent practitioner
In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates acupuncture needles and restricts their use to licensed practitioners. The FDA requires acupuncture needles to be sterile, nontoxic, and labeled for single use.
Acupuncturists also take a required “clean needle technique” class. In developing the Clean Needle Technique Manual, experts from OSHA and the CDC were consulted to ensure that the recommendations in the manual meet current OSHA and CDC standards.
Is Acupuncture right for me?
It’s important that you feel comfortable with and informed about your health care. We pride ourselves on being clear communicators, explaining our process and diagnoses with you so you don’t feel left in the dark. If you have any questions about our services or the care we provide, please don’t hesitate to ask.
