ACUPUNCTURE

Western medical acupuncture is the use of acupuncture following a medical diagnosis. It involves stimulating sensory nerves under the skin and in the muscles. This results in the body producing natural substances, such as pain-relieving endorphins. It's likely that these naturally released substances are responsible for the beneficial effects experienced with acupuncture.

A course of acupuncture usually creates longer lasting pain relief than when a single treatment is used.

Traditional acupuncture is based on the belief that an energy, or "life force", flows through the body in channels called meridians. This life force is known as Qi (pronounced "chee"). 

Who can this help?

Acupuncture is often used to treat musculoskeletal conditions (of the bones and muscles) and pain conditions, including:

muscular pain

migraines

chronic pain

joint pain 

dental pain 

postoperative pain 

Cosmetic acupuncture works by increasing blood circulation to the face as well as stimulating cells to produce more collagen. When the body lays down collagen in the areas of wrinkles it gives the effect of filling them in.

Needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points on the face to a depth of 1mm-5mm depending on the location. The use of needles in the deepest part of the wrinkle is also a popular technique to increase collagen production at the site. The number of needles varies depending on the patient's specific areas of concern and overall skin appearance and can range from 12 - 100 needles. The needles used in cosmetic treatment are extremely small and some, called intradermal needles, are inserted using tweezers.

The benefits of cosmetic acupuncture are improved circulation to the face, increased oxygenation of the tissues, removal of toxins and relaxation of the muscles. Acupuncture also helps to engage the parasympathetic nervous system which has an array of health benefits.

Anyone is a candidate for facial acupuncture. Some of the best results are seen on reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Other conditions commonly seen are rosacea, dry skin, acne, scarring and dark circles beneath the eyes.