Medical acupuncture is performed by inserting very thin, stainless steel needles and applying heat or electrical stimulation at precise acupuncture points. The physician uses disposable needles or needles that have been carefully sterilized, applying the same technique used to sterilize surgical instruments. Needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord and brain. These responses can either change the experience of pain, or trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture can result in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.
Most patients experience a state of meditation and relaxation after treatment.
The Mindfulness Program is designed to teach mind and body awareness to help patients cope with physical or psychological symptoms from stress and stress-related illnesses. By learning relaxation and awareness techniques, including mindful yoga and body movement, patients are taught to use their inner resources to relieve stress and manage pain more effectively. The Mindfulness Program was initiated 20 years ago at the University of Massachusetts by John Kabat-Zinn who was featured on Bill Moyer's PBS special Healing and the Mind. This group program is offered as an integrated component of a patient's overall medical care. The Massage Therapy program provides help for people with a broad spectrum health problems ranging from general stress to serious illnesses such as cancer.