Movement is life. It's all about movement.

Acupuncture stems from traditional wisdom that developed in and around China over a period of approximately 5,000 years.  It includes the concept of qi, often translated as "energy", and is based on a persistant exploration of the parrallels between the rythmic movements of nature and how similar states (both in and out of balance) manifest in all aspects of the human condition. 

Acupuncture is arguably the oldest, most commonly practiced medical procedure in the world and is used by one-third of the world as a primary healthcare system. In the U.S., acupuncture is performed legally by professionals that have completed national and/or state education and clinical requirements. Acupuncture involves the insertion of sterile, single-use-only needles into the body with a specific intention to elicit an appropriate movement of energy.  The desired result is to offer the patient a concrete sense of spiritual, emotional, and physical balance.  Effective use of acupuncture treats the underlying imbalances and promotes harmony within the whole person.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can acupuncture treat?
What are the benefits?
Does it hurt?
What will my visit be like?
  Is acupuncture endorsed by NIH?
What relationship is there between acupuncture and other medical care?
How do I make an appointment?
     

What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is helpful for acute physical concerns from headaches to joint pain. It has also been found effective for both acute and chronic conditions including headaches, chronic fatigue, depression, allergies, back pain, digestive disorders, joint pain, sleeping problems, infertility, menstrual disorders and other symptoms.

What are the benefits?
Individuals who pursue ongoing treatment for maintenance and the promotion of good health report: staying well longer and recovering from illness more quickly; improved stamina and vitality; improved capacity to positively influence their own health; reductions in long-term health care costs and tend to visit physicians less often; deepened and more harmonious relationships with others. 

What about the needles?
Acupuncture needles are solid, slender - slightly thicker than a human hair - and bear no resemblance to syringes. We use the finest quality, stainless steel, pre-sterilized, disposable needles.

Does it hurt?
The treatment process calls for the needles to be inserted just beneath the skin's surface. Sensations vary from person to person with some clients feeling a dull, momentary ache or tingling sensation.

What will my visit be like?
You will not always be treated with needles at the first visit. The primary purpose of this session is to gather information. During the 90-minute session your practitioner will discuss your health concerns and have the opportunity to assess the underlying conditions leading to your current situation, perform a physical examination and let you know what to expect when returning for regular treatments.

Is acupuncture endorsed by NIH?
The report from a Consensus Development Conference on Acupuncture held at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 1997 stated that acupuncture is being widely practiced by thousands of physicians, dentists, acupuncturists, and other practitioners for the relief or prevention of pain and for various other health conditions. Acupuncture has been widely accepted in the United States and has been endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

What relationship is there between acupuncture and other medical care?
Acupuncture is concerned with the whole person and addresses itself on many levels of functioning but does have limitations. Acupuncture is highly effective when used in conjunction with other health-promoting practices.

How do I make an appointment?
Appointments are scheduled by contacting the Reception Desk at 410-888-9048 ext. 6614.


Learn more about any of our services. Call ext. 6614 and schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation.


7750 Montpelier Road, Laurel, MD 20723  |  410-888-9048
© 2010 Tai Sophia Institute