White Plains Acupuncture PLLC Acupuncture in White Plains, New York

The Treatment

Acupuncture is the insertion of hair-thin, sterile needles, single-use needles into specific points on the body to activate special receptors which communicate with the central nervous, endocrine and cardiovascular systems resulting in the release of natural pain-killing substances and dilation of blood vessels delivering oxygen and nutrient-rich blood, hormones and immune factors to sick areas of the body. Acupuncture directs qi(energy) and blood along meridians of the body in order to bring the body back into a state of balance so that it can heal. 

Acupuncture is the main treatment, but other modalities such as tui na, cupping, gua sha and moxibustion may be included. Each treatment is about 1 hour and is tailored to your specific needs and presentation. 

Tui Na

"Tui "means to push and "na" means to grasp. Tui na is a form of body work that is based in the principles of Chinese medicine. It is similar to a massage except that you are fully clothed and we are working on creating balance in the body by moving stagnation along the meridians. Tui na is not always relaxing and may even be more energizing based on how the body is presenting. 

Cupping

Cupping is an ancient technique, used in many cultures, in which a special cup is applied to the skin and held in place by suction. The suction draws superficial tissue into the cup, which may either be left in place or moved along the body. Cupping brings fresh blood to the area and helps to improve circulation and treats adhesions to reduce pain and improve movement. 

Gua Sha

"Gua" means to scrape and "sha" means rash. It involves a scraping motion over oiled skin.  Similar to cupping in will produce a red mark when there is stagnation present. Gua sha has a similar effect to cupping but it is better at moving blood stagnation in the body.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion or "moxa" is the burning of the herb mugwort over specific points on the body. It has a warming and nourishing effect on the body. While acupuncture is very effective at moving energy in the body, moxa is used for adding warming energy when it is deficient.