Gentle and needle free acupuncture… How does that work?
Dr. Ellerie here. Let’s talk about Classical East Asian medicine(CEAM). The reality is that acupuncturists have a bunch of tools, but many practitioners rely on acupuncture needles as the core of their treatments. So what are those other tools? CEAM is a holistic system of treating a person. Acupuncture treats one aspect which is unblocking stagnant qi, stimulating flow. Stimulating flow can help tonify deficiencies (for example increase energy during fatigue) or reduce excesses (for example lower anxiety or reduce heat in a fever). Unblocking qi can also mean reducing stagnation which can cause pain.
As a practitioner, I question ‘how can I get the most effective results using the most gentle techniques?’ A variety of techniques to unblock qi *without* using needles*. While many folks are completely comfortable getting needled, it’s not for everyone. These tools can range from non-insertion needles (that look like knitting needles) called teishins, to gua sha, to cupping, to structural alignment techniques like Sotai and qi gong tuina and my favorite moxibustion (which uses the artemisia plant). A common comment is how relaxed people feel when they are being treated.
Since I am personally a needle sensitive , I’ve focused both on non-needling techniques and being a very gentle and accurate acupuncturist. The treatments for each of my clients is totally different from the next client based on their individual medical needs and their sensitivities. Some treatments involve no needles and all non-needling techniques. Many of my clients receive 3-4 needles and the majority non-needling techniques. And some clients receive mostly needles and a few non-needling techniques. If you are needle shy, just let me know and the treatment will be suited for your needs.