Acupuncture Specialist

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves placing thin needles in specific areas of the body to restore or rebalance the flow of energy.

In Chinese medicine, your health depends on the flow of qi (life force) through your meridians (channels or rivers). The constant flow of energy keeps the opposing forces yin and yang in balance. Disruptions in the flow or balance of energy lead to health problems. 

Acupuncture restores the flow of energy by unblocking meridians.

Current research indicates that acupuncture actually works by stimulating the central nervous system. Placement of the needles activates the release of neurotransmitters and chemicals, including endorphins — your body’s natural pain killers. 

What conditions benefit from acupuncture?

Many conditions benefit from acupuncture. The acupuncture practitioners at Manhattan Medicine work closely with the board-certified specialists to ensure you get the best treatment to manage your health needs.

Conditions that benefit from acupuncture include:

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Sciatica
• Joint pain
• Arthritis pain
• Headaches
• Neuralgia
• Insomnia

Acupuncture also boosts mood and reduces anxiety and may benefit mental health conditions like depression and anxiety disorders.

What happens during an acupuncture treatment?

Your acupuncture practitioner at Manhattan Medicine first conducts an evaluation to better understand your health needs and goals. Then, they talk to you about your treatment, so you know what to expect.

While you sit or lie on the exam table, your acupuncturist gently inserts fine needles into the appropriate areas of the body until they reach a certain depth. You may feel a dull ache when the needle hits the right spot. Your acupuncturist leaves the needles in place for a set period.

Because the needles are so thin, most people feel no pain or only very little pain during insertion. 

Am I a candidate for acupuncture?

Your board-certified specialist at Manhattan Medicine determines if you’re a candidate for acupuncture after your initial evaluation. 

They may include this alternative therapy with other treatments to improve your overall health and wellness outcomes and speed up your results without the need for more medications. For example, combining acupuncture with chiropractic care is common.

Find out more about acupuncture at Manhattan Medicine by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.