Acupuncture Techniques used at the Acupuncture Clinic

Both Japanese and Chinese acupuncture techniques are utilized in our office.

Which style of acupuncture given is determined by the patients tolerance to needling, the condition being treated, and the overall desired effect. The deciding factor, as to which style of technique is used, is the patients preference.

Chinese acupuncture techniques generally imploy deeper needling and heavier stimulation to the points being needled. The heavier stimulation causes a dull achy sensation at the sight of needle insertion. While slightly discomforting at first, a deep sense of relaxation normally follows.

Points are primarily selected by the symptoms they are known to alleviate. Some patients prefer this style of treatment.

Japanese acupuncture techniques are gentler in nature. Mild stimulation and superficial to shallow needling are trademarks of this style. While the techniques are usually painless, patients may occasionally feel, a mild pricking sensation at the site being stimulated. Points to be stimulated are selected on information gathered from comparative pulse diagnosis and careful palpation of, the abdomen and acupuncture meridians.

The filiform or Goshin Needle.

The needle most often used in our clinic is the filiform needle. Filiform needles are solid and spread the tissue away from the needle, unlike hypodermic needles, which are hollow and cut into the tissue. The needles used in our clinic are made of stainless steel or 24kt gold plated steel. All needles we use are individually packaged pre-sterilized with Ethyleneoxide gas, and disposed of immediately after use.

Intradermal needles.

There are two types of intradermal needles used in our clinic.

The hinashin, is made of stainless steel and comes in 3mm and 6mm lengths. It is inserted shallowly into the superficial layer of the skin and taped into place. Properly inserted, they cannot be felt if the area is moved or touched.

The empishin or press tack is a small spiral shaped needle that is pressed into the skin and taped into place.

Both types of intradermal needles are used to provide stimulation to specific points for periods of up to one week.

Non-insertion needle teishin

The teishin is used to provide stimulation to the acupuncture points by lightly pressing on the skin. We use the teishin for small children, the elderly, and patients to sensitive for regular needling techniques.

Electro-Acupuncture

In electro-acupuncture low level stimulation is applied to the needles to produce a stronger and more lasting effect. Stimulation is applied with a 9 volt battery powered unit that resembles a tens unit. Electro-acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain.

Moxibustion Techniques used at The Acupuncture Clinic

Moxibustion is the process of applying heat to specific points or over large areas of the body by burning the herb mugwart over them.  There are two types of moxibustion techniques used in our clinic: Direct and indirect.

Direct moxibustion is the placing of thread size pieces of moxa directly on top of an acupuncture point. The moxa is then ignited with an incense stick and is let to burn down to the skin level.  Patients may feel a slight pinch of heat when the ignited moxa reaches the skin. Occasionally a small blister approximately the size of a pin head will occur. This tiny blister is actually beneficial as it activates the bodys immune system and keeps the acupuncture point stimulated for longer periods of time.

Indirect  moxibustion is a process of applying radiant heat to specific acupuncture points or areas of the body. There are numerous methods of applying indirect moxibustion. At The Acupuncture Clinic we use specialized instruments that prevent the ignited moxa from touching the skin.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu, which means finger pressure, is a form of Japanese massage. It was created in 1912 by Tokujiro Namikoshi. There are approximately 660 shiatsu points on the body. They are based on western anatomy and are different than the traditional acupuncture points. Shiatsu is effective in improving the functioning of the muscles, nerves, blood vessels, lymph nodes, endocrine glands and internal organs. Shiatsu treatment has been found to promote the elasticity of the muscles, balance the skeletal system, help the digestive system, and promote the metabolism of body fluid. [i]   

Since its conception shiatsu has undergone many changes. There are numerous styles of shiatsu that are now being practiced throughout the world. While some remain true to the traditional form of shiatsu, many have incorporated concepts from Traditional Oriental Medicine and use the standard acupuncture points as well as the shiatsu points during a treatment session. At the Acupuncture Clinic, We practice an eclectic form of shiatsu that combines the best of, western anatomy and physiology, and Asian medical theory.