Sure! Western medicine is just starting to learn about how and why acupuncture works. Studies indicate that acupuncture influences the central and peripheral nervous system and certain acupuncture points stimulate different areas of the brain. Evidence shows that it releases endorphins - which makes acupuncture particularly effective in pain control. Acupuncture can directly stimulate muscles to help them relax or function properly. It bring’s the body’s attention to certain areas, increasing circulation to that area which can improve healing. There are recent theories that acupuncture affects the body’s electromagnetic field through it’s fascia layer, though there is much more research to be done.

Not like you would expect. You can rest assured that these needles are nothing like the hypodermic needles used for injections. These “thread-like” needles have been specially designed to provide for a virtually pain-free experience. They are incredibly thin and often you don’t feel anything. With motor point and trigger point treatments on tight or injured muscles, it does often feel achy. Kind of like a deep tissue massage but not as intense and usually with better results.

Most patients find the experience very relaxing. They experience a sense of well-being and are surprised at how comfortable and unintrusive the placement of the needles can be. Many fall asleep during a treatment. Occasionally, a patient might feel a slight sensation upon entry of the needle. Some have felt a slight pressure or a “dull” or “surging” reaction when the needle reaches the correct “point”.

One of the tremendous advantages of acupuncture is the absence of any serious side effects. These needles generally cause no bleeding upon entry or removal and are discarded after each use.

Yes. Dry needling is intramuscular, trigger point therapy, just one of many techniques that licensed acupuncturists are trained in. Many patients comment that this style of acupuncture is much less painful and more effective than needling they have received from other health care providers. An acupuncturist can also combine this style with other acupuncture techniques for a more comprehensive and effective treatment.

There are many ways acupuncture can be beneficial. Muscle motor point and trigger point needling stimulate the motor point nerve bundle of the muscle to “reset” the muscle, relaxing it if overly tight or getting it working properly if it’s weak. Electro-acupuncture is like the estim pads used in training rooms everywhere, but penetrates deeper into muscles through the needles to reduce inflammation, relax tight muscles and quicken the body’s healing time. Acupuncture has been shown to improve the body’s healing response by increasing blood circulation and nerve function. It’s been shown to improve mental health and promote clear thinking which is always vital on the playing field.Aside from musculoskeletal issues, acupuncture has been shown to be effective in the treatment of a wide range of common health conditions — including insomnia, anxiety, headache and digestive issues — all of which affect your athletic performance. We know that you can’t perform your best when overall health isn’t good.