What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a healing system originating from China. It has been used for thousands of years for many different conditions, from the common cold to low back pain to infertility and more.

Acupuncture uses fine needles to encourage a healing response in the body.

These thin needles are placed on different parts of the body to help manage many health conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, knee pain, you get it - if you have pain, we can work on it!

Acupuncture also helps with seasonal allergies, digestive issues, mental health imbalances, both men and women’s health (fertility issues, menstrual imbalances, menopause, etc.) and much more.

What is Acupuncture doing in the body?

From a Chinese medicine point of view, energy is believed to flow throughout the body. When we encounter difficult emotions or pain, the body’s energy becomes “stuck” and “stagnates”.

Acupuncture helps to unblock the “stuck” energy to bring the body and mind back into balance.

Western medicine has begun to validate acupuncture’s effectiveness in treating many modern diseases, especially musculoskeletal disorders involving pain.

We know now that acupuncture works on the nervous system, sending signals and biochemicals throughout the body to manage pain and other dysfunctions by eliciting nerve responses.

I believe there’s room at the table for both Western and traditional medicine. Together, they are stronger and more supportive in promoting healing than separately.

Suction cupping is a wonderful therapy and one of the many therapies performed by Acupuncturists.

What else can acupuncturists do?

Traditional Chinese medicine involves more than just acupuncture. Acupuncturists do more than just needling: cupping therapy, moxibustion, herbal formulations, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle improvements like practicing taiqi and qigong.

There you have it - if you’re nervous about needles, you can seek an acupuncturist for help and opt for needle-free options!

Have you had acupuncture before? Do you have any questions about the art and science of acupuncture and Chinese medicine? I’d love to hear from you.

I have been practicing acupuncture on O’ahu and Maui since 2021 and enjoy helping my local community feel better, even after one session. If you’re on Maui and looking for a caring and gentle acupuncturist, please reach out. I’d be honored to work with you!

~Meghane Hernandez, your local Maui Acupuncturist and Herbalist