Acupuncture is a medical technique that originated in China over 2,000 years ago and has recently become popular in western countries. Acupuncture works with the flows of subtle energy Qi (chi) within your body by temporarily inserting hair-thin needles at key locations called “acupuncture points.” It improves your mental and physical health by achieving more balanced flow of Qi throughout your body.

Acupuncture is a very safe procedure. In a study of outcomes in 101 consecutive patients, there were no complications or ill effects after 720 treatments. Acupuncture needles are made of surgical-grade steel and they are disposed after each treatment.

Both the National Institute of Health in US and the World Health Organization recognize the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating anxiety and depression.

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to help people with mental health symptoms like anxiety, depression, mood swings, melancholies, and mania. Acupuncture helps you to restore the free flow of Qi to obtain mental and emotional well-being. Numerous recent studies suggest that acupuncture is as effective as some antidepressants, and that it has minimal side effects.

At Turning Point we use acupuncture to treat many conditions that manifest symptoms of depression and anxiety, such as:

‣  General Anxiety Disorder
‣  PTSD
‣  Panic Disorders
‣  Addiction issues
‣  Trauma related issues
‣  Chronic health issues
‣  Major depression
‣  Bi-polar depression
‣  Seasonal Affective Disorder
‣  Menopausal Syndrome
‣  PMS
‣  Postpartum depression and/or anxiety
‣  Stress disorders

Most people report that the treatment is very relaxing for them. Before the treatment, the relevant acupuncture points on your body will receive some gentle massage to ensure the best possible results.  Once the needles are in, you will then relax and focus on your breathing for 15–30 minutes while your Qi rebalances. And then the needles are removed and you are done!

You may feel a slight “pinch” when the needle is inserted. After that, you may feel a dull ache, numbness, warmth, coolness, or a “heavy” sensation. These are all normal sensations of acupuncture. You may also feel pleasant sensations radiating up and down your body.  And sometimes you simply don’t feel anything at all — but the needles are still doing their job.

To get the best results you should avoid strenuous exercise for the first 2–3 hours after an acupuncture treatment. Drink lots of water and pay attention to your body’s response to the treatment. You may continue to notice subtle changes for several days after your treatment.

You may receive cupping in conjunction with your acupuncture treatments. The “cups” we use are made of glass and designed specifically for the healing purpose of cupping.  When we create a vacuum by applying heat in the cup, the suction draws your skin partway into the cup. Cupping promotes blood and lymph circulation to strengthen your immune function and achieve many health benefits.