An initial consultation starts with a comprehensive discussion regarding patient history and the presenting issue. If there are medical tests and reports, all are welcome to be brought in during this time. Following the consultation, the Acupuncture diagnosis and treatment will begin. 

 

The East Asian diagnostic model allows the practitioner to look at key bodily patterns that will present. This can be pressure pain and or flaccidity throughout the belly, irregular pulse patterns, variations in tongue colour, coating, and skin temperature and texture. Lastly, pain upon pressure in specific areas along the extremities are tested to confirm and consolidate the direction of treatment. 

 

The desired change during each session is achieved by implementing a number of treatment techniques, these include the use of fine needles, the burning of moxa (heat therapy) and or cupping and massage, and at times, all of these techniques can be used. The positive outcomes from Acupuncture are generally understood to be because of direct changes in blood biochemistry and flow. 

 

Acupuncture has shown to influence and modulate specific Biochemical markers. This includes various neurotransmitters, endorphins, immune cells, and other molecules like Nitric Oxide, largely responsible for vasodilation (increased blood flow).  Because of this, Acupuncture may help to down regulate inflammation, bringing calm to the musculature and nervous system, which is effective in reducing pain.   

 

During each session the practitioner will reassess based on the change that presents, and treatment is tailored to achieve the best clinical outcomes possible. This makes Acupuncture beneficial for many concerns that people present with clinically, it is a viable adjuvant treatment option that is both safe and drug free, and can be experienced alongside a person’s primary health management care and other Allied health modalities.