Modern western science confirms that acupuncture has at least six observable effects:

• Pain relief: releases endorphins to control pain
• Sedating: induces sleep by decreasing delta and theta wave activity during treatment
• Homeostatic: brings the internal environment towards the state of normalcy
• Immunity enhancing: increases resistance to disease
• Motor: speeds up recovery from paralysis and other injuries

In North America, acupuncture is known mainly for pain relief.  In reality, it is a complete medical system that addresses all the problems associated with the human condition.

Acupuncture is used by over one-fifth of the world's population.  In 1979, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognized acupuncture to treat over 100 different maladies, and by 1997 the National Institutes of Health (NIH) urged other health professionals to consider integrating the use of acupuncture with conventional medicine.

When someone goes for medical treatment they should have realistic goals.  Many conditions respond rapidly to acupuncture.  However some conditions that have taken many years to develop will require longer treatment periods.  Acute

conditions may respond in two-five treatments and chronic conditions may require five-to-twenty treatments.

Today's acupuncture needles are solid stainless steel, ultra fine and flexible.  They are pre-sterilized and disposable.  Unlike the western hyperdermic needle, which is hollow and thick and meant to either put fluids in or take fluids out, the acupuncture needle is virtually painless upon insertion.  During the treatment the patient may feel a deep sense of relaxation and may even fall asleep.  Under the hands of a skilled practitioner, acupuncture is safe, effective and affordable.

Some Treatable Disorders

• Gastrointestinal disorders: food allergies, peptic ulcers, chronic diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, anorexia, & gastritis.
• Urinary and Genetal -Genital disorders: stress incontinence, urinary tract infections, sexual dysfunction
• Addictions: alcohol, nicotine, and drugs
• Neuro-muscular disorders: arthritis, migraine headaches, neuralgia, insomnia, dizziness, neck and shoulder pain, low back pain, tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Respiratory disorders: emphysema, sinusitis, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, and sore throat.
• Circulatory disorders: hypertension, angina pectoris, anemia, arteriosclerosis.
• Emotional & psychological Disorders: depression, anxiety, and stress.
• Gynecological disorders: irregular, heavy or painful menstruation, infertility in women and men, menopause and pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Supportive therapy for other chronic and painful debilitating disorders
• Tendinitis - a more common ailment for Vermonters - "Skiers Thumb" can be treated successfully in just a few visits.