Acupuncture in Edina MN

Are you looking for acupuncture in Edina MN? Acupuncture, derived from the Latin meaning “needle prick”, is utilized to improve the overall health of patients by inserting needles into the body at various “points” or locations to achieve the desired effect.

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History of Acupuncture in Edina MN

The use of acupuncture can be traced back to over 4000 years ago. It spread through many parts of Asia and India. Currently in the US it is still considered complimentary and alternative, however more and more recognition of its effects is being researched.

The use of disposable stainless steel needles of very fine diameter that are inserted into specific points on the meridians depending upon the goal of treatment, perhaps to reduce pain or inflammation, to help with a constitutional issue such as “liver heat” or to assist in relaxation of muscle tissue.

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How does Acupuncture work?

With all the toxins present in our various environments, it is important that our bodies are well suited to interact and deal with each challenge that we face. While traditional and western explanations of acupuncture vary, each fundamentally deals with acclimating our body to our surroundings. After thousands of years of research, various points across the body have been located that have a significant impact on our body's overall physiology. Typically, depending on the desired end result, fine needles are meticulously positioned at these points to stimulate various aspects of our hormonal, immune, and endocrine systems. Once these systems have been stimulated, a number of neurotransmitters, natural pain killers, and hormones are released. Patients at our Health & Wellness Center Edina have described the following effects following acupuncture treatments:

• Decreases in muscles spasms and pain
• Decrease in swelling at various points across the body
• A general decrease in pain
• A decrease in illnesses due to stimulation of the immune system
• Lower levels of back and neck pain
• Fewer headaches
• Improved digestion
• Overall better sleep
• Fewer injuries during recreational sports
• Females report fewer gynecological issues

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Acupuncture and Your Body

There are twelve channels or meridians that correspond to and connect internally with one of the organs, such as Heart channel or Bladder channel for example. For example needles placed on the liver or bladder channel are often used to treat joint pain.

The flow of qi or energy through each of the twelve channels comprises of an internal and external pathway which can be stimulated by the specific placement of needles. Wherever qi is restricted in its flow, pain can result. Acupuncture uses needle placement to restore the flow of qi and reduce pain.

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What should I expect during my acupuncture session?

The first thing to understand prior to an acupuncture session is that the needles used are much different than those that you would typically encounter at a hospital. Most patients describe their acupuncture treatment as a calm and relaxing experience. In fact, some patients report feeling little to nothing at all.

On your first visit to our clinic in Edina MN, we will begin by performing a thorough history and examination. After the results are analyzed, we will identify the problematic areas and develop an individualized treatment plan. After the sterile needles are positioned, patients typically rest for 30-45 minutes as the treatment takes its course. Depending on the individual case, massage, moist heat, or cold packs may be combined with the therapy. The total visit typically lasts around an hour.

As with many conditions, the treatment effect can vary depending on the severity of the problem. Many patients report feeling immediate relief, while others describe noticing changes up to two days following the therapy. Depending on the patient and the number of visits, relief may last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks. It will be important to monitor this so that your treatment schedule can be altered appropriately.

While side effects are minimal, some patients have reported minor bouts of nausea, bruising, muscle pain, and difficulty sleeping following their initial treatment. If this occurs don't be alarmed and notify your treating health care professional prior to your next visit.

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If you would like to learn more about acupuncture in Edina MN or see if you could benefit from its incorporation into your current care, please contact our team at Health & Wellness Center Edina today for help. Begin on the path toward healing and health. Call Health & Wellness Center Edina today and speak to our team to find out how acupuncture can be a part of your overall wellness.