Electroacupuncture is a type of acupuncture that uses two needles instead of one, and passes a soft electric current between them during treatment.
The electrical current is typically between 40 - 80 volts and causes the patient to feel a subtle humming and pulsating feeling. During an electroacupuncture session, no electrical current is ever passed directly through the body.
Where Does Electroacupuncture Originate?
Traditional Chinese medicine believes sickness is created when Qi is not flowing properly throughout your body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, life is a gathering of Qi. A healthy and content person is a harmonious mixture of all the aspects of Qi within them.
If you are suffering from chronic pain or other health concerns, an acupuncturist can determine how weak your Qi is and pinpoint the exact point on the body that need to be addressed. People that suffer from an abundance of Qi in a specific area, like for example chronic back pain, find electroacupuncture particularly effective.
What Happens During an Electroacupuncture Treatment?
During an electroacupuncture treatment, I will place two needles and insert them in two points in your body, just like a traditional acupuncture session.
Then, I attach a small electrode to them. This creates a small current that runs between the two needles, stimulating the Qi. Patients tend to experience a subtle buzzing during the session.
Why Choose Electroacupuncture over Traditional Acupuncture?
While there are definite similarities between both traditional acupuncture and electroacupuncture, there are a few key differences to note.
Electroacupuncture treatments are almost always shorter due to the continued and more direct stimulus.
Electroacupuncture covers a larger area than the needle itself because of the current that crosses between the two needles. This also means the placement of the needles does not need to be as precise.
Electroacupuncture taps into your nervous system creating a greater release of endorphins. These endorphins tend to stick around in your blood longer and subsequently lengthen the relief of pain symptoms.
What Symptoms Can Electroacupuncture Treat?
There have been numerous studies examining the benefits of electroacupuncture on a wide array of health issues. In some cases it has even been used effectively as an anesthesia.
The most typical uses for electrotherapy have been for people suffering with arthritis, chronic pain conditions and tinnitus. It has also been known to help people struggling with nausea as a result of chemotherapy.
Does Electroacupuncture Hurt?
During an electro acupuncture appointment, you might feel a slight tingling sensation that is caused by the electrical current running between the two needles.
In some instances, you might have small bruises or minor bleeding if a needle hits a small blood vessel - however, this is rare.
Electroacupuncture Edmonton Clinic
As a Licensed Acupuncturist in Edmonton, Alberta, I have been trained in a variety of techniques and variations of acupuncture including electroacupuncture. I have used it effectively with numerous clients in the treatment of chronic pain conditions, stress and anxiety, neck pain, arthritis and other conditions.
Remember...
Electroacupuncture is not right for everyone.
If you have a history of seizures, epilepsy or heart disease, you should not consider it as a treatment for yourself. Before your first appointment, I will have you fill out a thorough form in order to identify any health concerns or risk factors before progressing. That way, we can make sure electroacupuncture treatment is right for you.
If you are struggling with long-term chronic pain and have tried numerous ways to deal with it, electroacupuncture might be the right path. I can sit down with you and discuss all the benefits as well as answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Electroacupuncture is a powerful pain management tool and can be used even more effectively in combination with massage and other health modalities. If you are interested in learning more about acupuncture or electroacupuncture, I would be more than happy to help.
Book an appointment online today or follow me on Instagram and Facebook where I share holistic health advice, new research findings and helpful tips for you to live your best and most holistic life - pain free.
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