Acupuncture stimulates areas of low electrical resistance, called acupoints, in order to restore harmony and balance to the body. The insertion of hair-thin needles rarely causes discomfort. Many patients actually fall asleep for the 20 to 60 minute treatment period while others experience deep relaxation.

Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi (Energy) and Xue (Blood) through distinct pathways that cover the body somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels do. According to the ancient theory, acupuncture allows Qi to flow to areas where it is Deficient and away from where it is Excess. In this way, acupuncture regulates and restores the harmonious energetic balance of the body. Acupuncture has been used for over two millennia for treatment of various disorders including eye, ear, nose and throat, respiratory, gastrointestinal, nervous system, including headaches, and muscular disorders. The World Health Organization advises that acupuncture is suitable for treatment of these disorders.

Sierra Shan Acupuncture and Herbal Center uses sterilized, individually packaged disposable needles to eliminate the possibility of transmission of communicable diseases. During treatment, the needles are inserted to depths varying from one quarter of an inch to an inch depending on a number of factors including the patient's size, age and constitution, and the diagnosis. Sensations sometimes are felt during insertion of the needles. These may include minor cramping, heaviness, distention, tingling, or electric sensation either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridian or energy pathway. These sensations are almost always very mild and disappear rapidly after treatment. In Chinese, acupuncture is bu tong, painless. Treatments typically last thirty to forty five minutes during which time patients experience a deep sense of relaxation to the point of even falling asleep.

The number of treatments needed depends upon the duration, severity, and nature of your complaint. Often only a single treatment is needed for an acute condition. A series of five to fifteen treatments may be required to resolve a chronic problem. Degenerative conditions may need continued treatments over time. Frequently, acupuncture is combined with other modalities of treatment such as herbal medicine, massage, nutritional therapy and exercise.