Acupuncture is a catalyst for healing the body, and a part of system of Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been in particular for over 2000 years.

Acupuncture practitioners insert extremely fine, disposable needles with rounded tips just below the surface of skin. This stimulates qi, the body's cycle energy flow (pronounced"chee" or "chi"). By balancing and redirecting qi, an acupuncture practitioner encourages the body functions.

Qi flows through the body along channels known as meridians. The body contains nearly 500 different acupuncture points located along these meridians. Modern science has actually shown that the body give off slight electrical charges at these points. An imbalance or blockage in the flow of qi at these points can cause many ailments. Imbalances in qi flow can be caused by stress, anxiety, anger, fear, poor nutrition, and even changes in the weather. Acupuncturists concentrate on stimulating the body's energy flow by unblocking these meridians. By restoring qi balance and flow, acupuncture allows the body to heal itself naturally.

Before seeing practitioners you will be asked to fill out some forms. When you come in for your acupuncture treatment we will first talk with you, discuss your symptoms and ask you some questions. During your consultation we may ask to look at your tongue and feel your pulse. Both are done to help diagnose your condition according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Once we fully understand you and your condition a treatment plan will be discussed.

To begin to receive an acupuncture treatment you will be asked to lie down on a treatment table. You may be asked to change into a treatment gown. The practitioner will clean certain points on your body with an alcohol swab and then the acupuncture needles will be inserted. You may have a heat lamp placed over an area of your body or electrical stimulation applied to certain acupuncture needles. You will then be asked to relax for 20-30 minutes, after which time the needles will be removed.

In general, acupuncture is done 2-3 times a week for the first few weeks and then adjusted based upon your body's response.

You may be asked to take herbs. Herbs and acupuncture work on the body in different ways. If it is necessary you may need to take an herbal medicine to gain the best effect. At Eternal Spring we provide excellent quality herbs in both raw and capsule form. Because we have an herbal pharmacy, herbal formulas can be created specifically for your condition.

If you have any question during this process, please ask. Together we can bring you to better health.

Most people find acupuncture to be painless and calming—some even fall asleep during treatment!

It’s common to feel nervous if you’ve only experienced larger needles used for vaccines or blood draws. Acupuncture needles are much thinner—about the width of a human hair—and are designed to minimize discomfort.

We always aim to make you feel at ease. If something feels uncomfortable, just let us know—we’ll adjust right away.

Acupuncture can help with a wide range of conditions, issues like chronic pain, stress, anxiety, headaches, digestive problems, and more.

Beyond that, acupuncture has been shown to influence the body’s internal systems. It can help regulate blood pressure and circulation, balance hormone levels, and support immune function by stimulating red and white blood cell production. It may even help lower cholesterol.

It depends on your condition and goals. Some issues improve within a few sessions; others may need several weeks or months of care.

Most patients start with 2 treatments per week, then reduce frequency as they improve. Some people continue with monthly “tune-up” sessions to maintain long-term wellness and prevent future issues.

Your practitioner will recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.