Acupuncture

Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities. Very fine disposable needles are placed in specific points along energy pathways of the body called meridians. Patients may experience a sense of well-being and relaxation during treatment. Research shows that acupuncture stimulates endorphins (a neurotransmitter) and other brain chemicals that promote circulation and hormonal balance, as well as reduce pain and inflammation. It is effective for both physical and psychological problems. One of the greatest advantages of acupuncture is the absence of undesirable side effects. Other techniques of treatment may include thermal therapy, acupressure, cupping, electrical stimulation and/or herbal therapy.

Chinese Herbal Therapy

Traditional Chinese herbal formulas have been used for more than 3,000 years. Most formulas consist of two to eighteen different types of herbs. Herbal formulas treat a variety of symptoms, while stimulating the body’s natural healing process. Modern techniques can transform formulas into pills, capsules, granules, powders, or tinctures to make them easy and convenient to ingest. Chinese herbology is well known for its efficacy and safety when administered by a qualified practitioner. Here at Kailua Acupuncture Clinic we use only the highest quality herbs manufactured by companies that meet or exceed the international GMP standard, such as Evergreen, Plum Flower, and Health Concerns.

Cupping Therapy

Acupuncture Traditional Chinese herbal m

Cupping is the term applied to a technique that uses small cups, often made of glass or silicone, as suction devices that are placed on the skin. Once the suction has occurred, the cups can be gently moved across the skin or left in place. The suction in the cups causes the skin and superficial muscle layer to be lightly drawn into the cup. Cupping is much like the inverse of massage - rather than applying pressure to muscles, it uses gentle pressure to pull them upward. For most patients, this is a particularly relaxing and relieving sensation. The suction and negative pressure provided by cupping can loosen muscles, encourage blood flow, and sedate the nervous system. Cupping is often used to relieve back and neck pain, stiff muscles, anxiety, fatigue, and migraines, among other uses.