Acupuncture
How it works, what to expect, and more!
How Does Acupuncture Work? π
Acupuncture aims to restore balance in the body by stimulating points along meridians which coincide with areas rich in blood vessels, nerves, and tissue. Stimulation at these points sends signals that reduce inflammation, inhibit pain pathways, and stimulate a variety of neurotransmitters providing immediate and long-term relief.
This leads to benefits such as pain relief, muscle relaxation, anti-inflammatory effects, and immune regulation among many others. Acupuncture meridians have unique properties relating to electricity, heat, sound, light, and magnetism which are absent in other body areas, supporting the existence of these meridians.
For the science nerds π€
During acupuncture, blood vessels, mast cells, and nerve fibers are stimulated, sending signals to the body to reduce inflammation and inhibit certain pathways associated with pain. This leads to immediate and long-term pain relief by affecting spinal microglia and astrocytes. Acupuncture also influences the brain's pain modulation system, involving various neurotransmitters like endogenous opioids, serotonin, and glutamate, among others. Studies have indicated that acupuncture has various actions, such as analgesic, muscle relaxing, anti-inflammatory and antidepressant actions, with biological mechanisms that influence the nervous system, intestinal flora, immune regulation, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation.
Put simply, Acupuncture has the following effects:
π«ΆπΏ Pain Relief
Alters pain perception and reduces pain intensity
π₯ Inflammation Reduction
Modulates inflammatory responses
π§ Neurotransmitter Regulation
Influences the release of neurotransmitters for improved nerve signaling
π Endorphin Release
Stimulates the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers
π‘οΈ Immune System Modulation
Enhances immune function and regulates immune responses
π©Έ Blood Flow Enhacement
Improves blood circulation in treated areas
π§π»ββοΈ Stress and Anxiety Reduction
Induces relaxation and lowers stress and anxiety levels
βοΈ Hormonal balance
Regulates hormonal levels for improved overall balance
πͺπ½ Muscle Tension Reduction
Relaxes muscles and reduces tension
π΄ Improved Sleep Quality
Positively influences sleep patterns and quality
βοΈ Cognitive Function Improvement
Enhances cognitive functions and mental clarity
The Acupuncture experience at TIDAL β¨
Each acupuncture regimen at TIDAL begins with our New Patient Consult + Treatment visit, where we gather crucial medical history and learn more about who you are as a person + provide an initial acupuncture treatment.
From there, we'll recommend any number of follow-up sessions ranging from 30-60 minutes depending on your case. We may also recommend other services as well to catalyze your healing journey further. And don't worry - we'll make sure you're as informed as possible on our recommendations so you know what may/may not be optimal for your case and condition.
We are also working on packages, memberships, and more exciting ways to provide you with ample options for your plan of care - more on that soon! Until then contact us any time if you have questions. We can't wait to meet you!
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