The practice of Acupuncture originated from China 2000 years ago (some sources say 3000). It was originally used in the Forbidden City where the imperial palace of the Emperors lived.  Acupuncture is performed within the scope of what is known as Chinese Medicine. Chinese Medicine included other modalities as well (cupping, moxibustion, tui-na Chinese Acupressure). Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine were created to harmonize imbalances in the body and areas of “Qi”, or energetic, disharmony. It was found that there were areas known as Meridians and influential points along those areas that follow a pathway along the body that are most influential with “Qi”. If those areas are treated, then heath and harmony are effectively restored and rebalanced.

Acupuncture is used not only to treat signs/symptoms of disease. We see the “whole” patient and how their body is constitutionally doing. Every individual will have different needs vs. someone who comes in with the very same signs and symptoms.  For instance if one patient who comes in with issues of digestion and has an unhealthy diet and stress vs. someone who has issues with digestion and has a healthy diet and no stress. Some patients may need Acupuncture and stress relief with Meditation or Acupuncture and Nutritional counseling. Each patient is unique.

Modern day acupuncture certification requires 3500 hours of Internship/externship, Graduate/Master degree level training (and now in the past few years doctorate level training can be acquired), and a rigorous state board certification (and/or National Certification).