WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most widely used systems of healing in the world. Originating in China some 3,500 years ago, in the last thirty years has it become popular in the United States.  This ancient art focuses on treating both the symptoms and the underlying cause of the condition.  Acupuncture is a complete medical system, which treats a person’s spiritual, emotional, mental and physical being.  Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles at specific points on the body.  These points have been empirically proven to be effective in the treatment of numerous disorders.  The goal of acupuncuture treatment is to rebalance and enhance energy flow in the body to restore health.  If you'd like to talk with us more about acupuncture, or to schedule an appointment or free consultation, please contact Janice Perry - Licensed Acupuncturist, at 978.772.1112 (or info@harvardacupuncture.com).

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?

Qi (pronounced "Chee"), translated as "vital energy" or "life force," circulates throughout the body along well defined pathways called meridians.  Acupuncture points are located along these meridians and are energetically connected to specific organs, body structures, and systems in the body.  Optimum functioning of the body is affected if this energy system is blocked or disrupted.  This energetic dysfunction may manifest as pain or illness. Acupuncture points are stimulated to balance the circulation of Qi, which in turn balances the health of the entire being.

WHAT DOES ACUPUNCTURE TREAT?

Acupuncture is effective for both acute and chronic conditions and is also a preventative medicine.  It stimulates the immune system and the body’s natural healing force without drugs, surgery or trauma.  According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the health branch of the United Nations, and the National Institute of Health (NIH), acupuncture has proven effective in the treatment of many common health problems.

DO ACUPUNCTURE NEEDLES HURT?

The FDA has approved acupuncture needles as safe and effective medical devices.  Our needles are pre-sterilized and disposable and are never reused.  Most people are surprised to learn that acupuncture needles are extremely thin (thinner than the diameter of a human hair).  They are not like hypodermic (injection) needles, which are large and hollow.  As acupuncture needles are inserted, most people feel nothing at all, or a mild tingling.  During a treatment many patients become profoundly relaxed and may even fall asleep.