What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the practice of inserting needles into the body
at specific points, to alter the body’s flow of energy and
balance the endocrine system.
What is Auricular acupuncture?
This type of acupuncture is done by inserting small needles on
specific parts of the ear called acupoints. There are as many
as two hundred acupuncture points on the outer ear. Each acupoint
triggers an electrical impulse from the ear to the brain and onto
the affected parts of the body. Each point is named generally
after the areas of our anatomy in which it effects.
Why use acupuncture?
Acupuncture can be an excellent alternative for teenagers as
it is a strong intervention that does not require medications.
Auricular acupuncture should be used as a complementary therapy,
in conjunction with conventional methods of psycho-social
rehabilitation including: support groups and counselling.
Auricular acupuncture has become by far the most popular method
of acupuncture for the treatment of substance use/misuse. Auricular
acupuncture treatments does not require privacy for individuals
so many people can be treated at once. Many group therapies will
incorportate the acupunture into their group therapy sessions.
Can you use if pregnant?
Auricular acupuncture is safe even during pregnancy. Advise the
acupuncturist so they may target specific areas to help you
Does it hurt?
The needles should be sterile and used only once so there is
virtually no danger of infection. The needles that are used may
cause a small sting, or pinch. Your acupuncturist can adjust the
needle if it causes you discomfort.
