Acupuncture in Amherst

Are you looking for acupuncture in Amherst? Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medical treatment which stimulates the body's inherent abiliy to heal itself. The healthy body is constantly nourished by a balanced flow of vital energy. This energy, called "chi," follows fourteen major pathways or meridians, each with particular functions relating to different parts of the body and internal organs.

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How does acupuncture work?

When the energy of the body or "chi" is restricted, or goes out of balance, disease arises. Acupuncture promotes the balanced flow of energy throughout the body. This is accomplished by the insertion of very fine, sterilized needles at carefuly selected points located on the meridians.

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Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are so thin and flexible that most people experience no discomfort when they are inserted. Then there is no sensation until the needle touches the point at the correct depth in the skin. The stimulus is then felt which may be a dull or aching sensation or a slight tingling which may move in a particular direction.

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What is acupuncture good for?

The fame of acupuncture centers on its ability to promote relief from pain. However, it is effective for both chronic and acute conditions, and can be valuable as a form of preventive medicine. It can also create internal harmony, thus relieving anxiety and stress. One does not have to believe in acupuncture for it to work. For example, it has been used successfully on racehorses.

Acupuncture can be an effective way of treating pain and illness, by promoting the natural ability of the body to heal itself. It treats stress-related illnesses, and a variety of physical problems such as allergies, high blood pressure, constipation, arthritis, skin disorders, headaches, sciatica, recurrent colds, acute spasms, post-operative pain, menstrual problems, low energy and insomnia, to name a few.

Acupuncture is a way of nurturing yourself. It is a way of feeling good and being in touch with yourself. It is not necessary to have an illness or injury to benefit from acupuncture. In fact, royal families in ancient China employed acupuncturists to maintain their health and vitality.

Acupuncture harmonizes the body's energies. The needles create little discomfort, and as energy blocks are released, you become unaware of their presence.

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How many treatments are necessary?

It depends on the nature of the problem and one's general health. The effects of acupuncture therapy are cumulative and usually require a series of treatments. Some acute conditions are treated successfully after 4-8 sessions, whereas more chronic conditions may take a dozen or more visits. An average treatment lasts from 30 to 45 minutes.