Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine that has been used for over 3000 years. 

 

Acupuncture improves the body’s functions and and promotes the natural self-healing process by stimulating specific anatomic sites—commonly referred to as acupuncture points. 

 

Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on an ancient philosophy that describes the universe, and the body in terms of two opposing forces: yin and yang.  When these forces are in balance, the body is healthy.  Energy, called “qi” (pronounced “chee”) flows along specific pathways, called meridians, throughout the body.  This constant flow of energy keeps the yin and the yang forces balanced.  However, if the flow of energy gets blocked, like water getting stuck behind a dam, the disruption can lead to pain, lack of function, or illness.  Acupuncture therapy can release blocked qi in the body and stimulate function, evoking the body’s natural healing response through various physiological systems. 

 

Western medicine explains acupunctures effects within a different framework.  Some Western scientists believe that acupuncture stimulates the central nervous system, signaling the body to release various substances including endorphins, immune system cells, opioids, neurotransmitters, and neurohormones.  These may help control pain, change how the body experiences pain, and promote physical and emotional well-being.  Some research also indicates that acupuncture influences involuntary central nervous functions, such as blood pressure, blood flow, and body temperature regulation. 

 

Dr. Wies has utilized acupuncture extensively with chronic pain and cancer patients; combatting some of the unwanted side effects of chemo and radiation as well as for stress relief. 

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