What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of hair-thin, sterile needles into certain points located on the body. Acupuncture can have both a local and systemic effect on the body. Locally, it can increase micro-circulation and better oxygenation to tissue which will in turn help reduce pain, decrease inflammation and promote healing. Systemically, it can release endorphins and natural pain killers that continue to be released over a period of days after treatment.
Acupuncture has been around for over 2,000 years with China having the longest recorded history. Acupuncture is one part of Chinese medicine and essentially restores the smooth flow of qi or better oxygenation of tissue. We all know what better blood flow means in western medicine terms. Acupuncture is able to return the body to its natural state of balance and promote the body's self-healing.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is one part of Chinese Medicine and works in the body as follows:
- Acupuncture promotes blood flow and vasodilation in the body. Restoring proper blood flow is vital to promoting and maintaining health. Blood flow decreases as we age and can be impacted by trauma, injuries, and certain diseases.
- Acupuncture stimulates the body’s built-in healing mechanisms. Acupuncture stimulates the body’s ability to spontaneously heal by creating "micro-traumas" to the tissue that activates the nervous, immune and endocrine systems.
- Acupuncture releases natural painkillers. Inserting a needle sends a signal through the nervous system to the brain, where chemicals such as endorphins, norepinephrine, and enkephalin are released.
- Acupuncture reduces both the intensity and perception of chronic pain. It does this through a process called “descending control normalization," which involves the serotonergic nervous system.
- Acupuncture relaxes shortened muscles. This in turn releases pressure on joint structures and nerves, and promotes blood flow.
- Acupuncture reduces stress. Recent research suggests that acupuncture stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone and signaling substance that regulates the parasympathetic nervous system. Acupuncture can turn off the “fight-or-flight” response that is governed by the sympathetic nervous system and switch to “rest-and-digest” or the “calm-and-connect” parasympathetic nervous system.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes, Acupuncture is used by millions of Americans every year. Licensed Acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education, including detailed study of human anatomy and training in Clean Needle Technique and pass comprehensive national board examinations administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). As required by law, only FDA approved, pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles are used to ensure your complete safety.
What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?
Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that you will hardly feel when inserted. The needles are gently stimulated. Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will feel like hypodermic needles. They won't! Most patients find acupuncture very comfortable and leave the treatment feeling deeply relaxed.
What Types of Acupuncture Are Offered?
Acupuncture can help with pain management, fertility support, digestive issues, allergies, stress management, and many other conditions. After your individualized evaluation, the types of Acupuncture offered at EVOLVE Acupuncture & Wellness may include:
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- Traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture
- Cosmetic acupuncture
- Orthopedic acupuncture
- Trigger point acupuncture aka dry needling
- Motor point acupuncture to restore function in weak muscles
- Electro-acupuncture
- Auricular or ear acupuncture
- 5-element acupuncture
- Distal acupuncture including Dr. Tan Balance Method and Master Tung
Do You Have More Info on Acupuncture for New Patients?
More information on Frequently Asked Questions including pricing and insurance questions can be found here.
Dr. Mike Tocco, DACM, Licensed Acupuncturist and Registered Nurse at EVOLVE Acupuncture conveniently located in Ferndale, MI near Royal Oak and Woodward provides Acupuncture, Microneedling and Chinese Herbal Medicine to the communities of Metro Detroit.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website, email and affiliated EVOLVE Acupuncture websites and social media pages including our trusted collaborators is for information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The information and products are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any illness or disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The opinions and endorsements expressed in our testimonials are strictly those of the customer submitting the review. Consult your physician for medical advice.
Dr. Mike Tocco, LAc, RN Licensed Acupuncturist, Registered Nurse
(248) 955-1215
1938 Burdette Street Ferndale, Michigan 48220
By Appointment Only