Annapolis Acupuncture
All rights reserved.
Copyright 2007.
Locations: 1300 Ritchie Highway, Arnold, MD 21012 & 202 Walnut Street, Church Hill, MD 21623
Phone: 410-703-4431
The Most Common Question:
Do the Needles Hurt?

If you've heard about Acupuncture, you are probably aware that the treatment involves
the use of needles. However, many people assume that the experience will be painful
and similar to getting a shot at the doctor's office.

Acupuncture needles are different in many ways from a hypodermic needle.

Acupuncture needles are solid, as opposed to hollow bore, and are extremely thin.
Actually, several acupuncture needles can fit inside a standard hypodermic needle!
Acupuncture needles are very fine and are close in diameter to a human hair.

Insertion of the needles is virtually painless and the needling sensation after insertion
is brief. Most people will experience a slight tingling sensation, while others may feel
no sensation at all. Overall, patients are pleasantly surprised after the first treatment
when they realize how little discomfort is involved in receiving acupuncture.

The vast majority of people find the treatments to be rejuvenating, often falling into a
deep state of relaxation and will leave feeling refreshed.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient medical art that originated in China at least 3,000 years
ago. Fine, hair-like needles are inserted into specific points on the body to influence
the energy or Qi(
Pronounced chee) of the patient.

According to the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi is the life force that is
present in all living things and when there is an imbalance of this energy, illness
occurs. The main goal of acupuncture treatment is to balance this energy and to
promote the body's natural healing mechanisms.

History of Acupuncture

Archaeological findings have uncovered early acupuncture instruments that were
manufactured from stone that date back to the 21st century B.C. Although these early
instruments would be considered crude by today's standards, as early as 475 B.C.
cast metal needles appeared, which became the precursors to the modern
acupuncture needle.

In the 4th century A.D. the medical text Huangdi Neijing was written and is considered
the definitive classical text upon which Acupuncture theory is based.

Today Acupuncture is widely known and used throughout the world and is
the oldest,
continuously practiced, medical system in the world.

Acupuncture Theory

Traditional Chinese Medical theory is based upon the principles of Yin and Yang,
opposite forces that work together to maintain balance and harmony. When Yin and
Yang are harmonized there will be a natural flow of Qi throughout the body. In contrast,
when Yin and Yang are not harmonized there will be impairment in the natural flow of
Qi and disease and illness can occur. Environmental influences, physical or
emotional trauma, unexpressed anger, frustration, grief, worry and depression all can
disrupt the natural balance of Yin and Yang.

Acupuncture has the wonderful ability to reestablish a harmonization of Yin and Yang
by working directly with the Qi of the body, thus promoting healing and restoring health.

The Advantages of Acupuncture

Firstly, acupuncture is safe for nearly all patients, including children, the elderly and
those with compromised immune function. In most cases there are no side effects
and it will not interfere with prescribed medical regimens. It can be used successfully
alone, or as an adjunct to western medicine.

Second, it promotes your body's own natural energy to work more efficiently, thus
providing greater health and well-being in a completely natural way. Also, most
patients report added benefits from treatment including better sleep, reduced stress,
improved energy and stamina and an overall improvement in their quality of life.

The Acupuncture Treatment

During the initial visit, which normally lasts 1 1/2 - 2 hours, a full consultation and
treatment will be performed. Your practitioner will ask you questions regarding your
medical history, diet and lifestyle and will provide a traditional pulse and tongue
diagnosis. A treatment plan will be discussed in depth which will outline the
anticipated course of treatment for your specific concern.

Follow-up visits normally require about 45 minutes and are usually scheduled once a
week. Although all cases are different and unique, generally patients will begin to
achieve results after 3 to 6 treatments.


Peter Hennig, L.Ac. is a CareFirst BC/BS, CIGNA & United Healthcare Preferred
Provider

If you have never experienced the wonderful benefits of acupuncture, call today for a
free phone consultation and start your journey toward better health!