Evidence-Based Medical Protocols for Acupuncture

The following are acupuncture treatment protocols supported by scientific medical studies.

Acupuncture has been introduced to Americans as a medical therapy over the past few decades but this ancient healing art, originating in China, has accumulated over several thousand years of empirical knowledge and clinical experience.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points along 14 meridians, or energy pathways traversing the body to stimulate a response in the body’s natural healing and pain relieving mechanisms. These pathways cannot be seen by the naked eye but modern science has been able to measure and confirm such corresponding locations. This medical treatment is performed by a Doctor of Acupuncture and integrates the empirical knowledge and clinical experience of traditional acupuncture and an evidence-based protocol that has proven to be beneficial by scientific research.

Acupuncture needles are much smaller and relatively painless compared to hypodermic needles. Acupuncture needles are hair-thin and solid with a rounded tip unlike hypodermic needles, which are hollow with a cutting edge. These single-use, sterile needles are regulated by the FDA as a medical instrument. Acupuncture treatments often include the use of electrical stimulation devices (E-Stim) that induce a small current between needles. This modern method of stimulation produces a mild tapping, or tingling sensation that can be adjusted to accommodate the patient’s comfort.

Note: A diagnosis in the practice of Acupuncture is traditionally based on pattern discrimination and is not disease specific; therefore a treatment is tailored to each patient as an individual with a unique pattern of signs and symptoms. Modifications and/or additional therapies may be considered for the best therapeutic results.

All new patients, prior to treatment, should print and complete the PATIENT HISTORY FORM.