Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is an ancient treatment originating in China more than 2,000 years ago.  Traditional Chinese Medicine is a system that was documented in China by the 3rd century B.C., and is based on a concept of vital energy or qi (pronounced chee) that is believed to flow throughout the body.  Qi is proposed to regulate a person’s spiritual, emotional, mental and physical balance and is to be influenced by the opposing forces of yin (negative energy) and yang (positive energy).  Acupuncture is one of the key components of the TCM system and is made up of procedures that involve the stimulation of more than 2,000 anatomical points on the body by a variety of techniques. 

The human body is seen as a delicate balance of the two opposing and inseparable forces: yin and yang. Yin represents the cold, slow or passive principle, while yang represents the hot, excited or active principle.  Acupuncture is achieved by maintaining the body in a "balanced and harmonious state" and that disease or similar is due to an internal imbalance of yin and yang. This imbalance leads to blockage in the flow of qi along pathways known as meridians. It is believed that there are 12 main meridians and 8 secondary meridians in the body and the more than 2,000 anatomical points on the body stimulated by Acupuncture needles connect with them.  

Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain when the needles are inserted. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed.3 Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the needle can cause soreness and pain during treatment.4 This is why it is important to seek treatment from a licensed Acupuncturist.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners in 1996. The FDA requires that sterile, nontoxic needles be used and that they be labeled for single use by qualified practitioners only.5
The following in alphabetical order are recommended by Park Avenue Fertility:

Jacques R. Depardieu, M.S., L.Ac.
203-656-2000 in Darien

Mary Jean Michel L.A.c., R.N., M.Ed.
203-732-5500 in Derby

New England Family Health Associates, Southport
www.NEFHA.com

Revive Wellness Center, New Haven
www.revivewellnesscenter.com

Whole Body Medicine, Trumbull
www.wholebodymed.com