No needles? No Problem!

Curious about Acupuncture but needles aren’t for you?

We’ve got you covered.

The practice of acupuncture utilizes and accesses a unique communication network within the body. This network is called the Meridian system and it makes itself available thru a series of points on the surface of our skin. When you receive acupuncture, needles are usually used to access these points. But these points can be accessed in so many different ways- not just with needles – so no matter how feel about pins, there’s no need to miss out on the potential acupuncture has to offer.

A successful treatment  is all about hitting the right spots. And we’ve got tons of options as to how those spots are hit. The key is the points themselves. They are magical little epicentres of communication and information, and when they are stimulated, good things happen. So what are some of the cool ways we can stimulated these points? Here’s a few: 

1. Acupressure: Fingers or thumbs or elbows are used here. The pressure on the point creates changes under the surface of skin, which in turn changes the flow of information in the meridian system. Have a point held for a minute, and you can feel that muscle knot melt away. You can read more about it here (link to Acupressure q & a)

2. Magnets: Because the Acupuncture meridian system is electro-magnetic in nature, strong magnets placed at key points can have a profound effect. Many people are familiar with the wrist bands worn for nausea. It’s like that, but on steroids. 

3. Tuning Forks/ Acutonics: Tuning forks of various specific frequencies are used. Different frequencies have different effects. They can really help get the lymph system moving, and are great for relaxing muscles and calming the nervous system. Kids love them. And we all have that kid within us somewhere.

4. Cross tape / Kinesio-Tape: Kinesio tape is a special tape that is woven in a way that gently lifts the skin and allows for improved circulation and flow underneath. It works great placed on specific muscles to either activate the muscle or relax it (depending on how it is applied). We can also place it over specific meridians to increase the flow. Cross Tape is made of the same tape, but shaped in little hashtags. They are designed to be placed over acupuncture points to stimulate them. They work wonders for trigger points too!

5. Cupping: Many types of therapists use this modality now, simply because it works so well, but its origins come from the acupuncture/ meridian system. This technique increases circulation, and helps remove the little adhesions that form under the skin and in the fascia. Your back will look like a work of art when finished.

6. Gua Sha: This technique uses a tool to gently scrape the surface of the skin. Done over acupuncture points, meridians, or any tight band of muscle or irritated tendon, this technique increases circulation and stimulates the body’s own healing response.

So if needles aren’t for you, no problem! The toolbox at your acupuncturist’s disposal is full of powerful goodies that cater to any preference, and will get the job done.