Acupuncture refers to the insertion of tiny, hair-thin needles into the skin at strategic points to ease pain and treat many illnesses. Practiced in China for more than 2,000 years, acupuncture is based on the belief that the body contains energy called qi (pronounced “chee”) that flows throughout the body on pathways called meridians.

When you’re healthy, this energy flows freely, but during illness, the energy may be weak or blocked. During acupuncture treatment, the clinician tries to improve the energy flow along the meridians.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

The improved energy flow produced by acupuncture results in stimulation of the body’s natural healing abilities. Acupuncture stimulates the body to release chemicals into the nervous system and into the bloodstream. These chemicals change the experience of pain and trigger the release of other substances that influence the body’s internal regulatory systems.

Acupuncture has proven successful in treating the following chronic pain conditions without side effects:

• Abdominal pain
• Addiction
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Fibromyalgia
• Gastritis, colitis, hiccups, and constipation
• Headaches
• Low back pain
• Postoperative surgery and dental pain
• Neck pain
• Menstrual cramps
• Myofascial pain
• Nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy
• Osteoarthritis
• Sinusitis, bronchitis, and asthma
• Stroke rehabilitation
• Tennis elbow

What Happens During Acupuncture Treatment?

During the acupuncture session, your child will lie on a padded table. The acupuncturist will insert very thin, sterile, and disposable stainless-steel needles into key points on your child’s body. Because the needles are solid, they don’t hurt as much as regular hollow hypodermic needles. Most children feel only minimal pain or a tingling sensation as the needles are inserted, and some feel no pain at all. Once the needles are in place, no pain is felt, and most children begin to feel comfortable and relaxed. Each treatment usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes.

Does Insurance Cover Acupuncture Treatment?

Despite the documented benefits of acupuncture therapy, some insurance companies do not yet recognize its value. Please discuss your individual needs with your medical acupuncturist.

Cupping is a time-honored technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine that uses suction to stimulate specific acupressure points on the body. Memorial therapists perform “dry cupping,” a modern, noninvasive form of this ancient treatment method.

What Happens During Cupping Treatment?

During treatment, glass, plastic or silicone cups are placed on the skin. Air inside the cups is removed either by squeezing it out or pumping it out, creating a vacuum that draws the skin and superficial muscle layer upward.

While treatment may leave temporary circular marks and cause minor discomfort, it frequently results in a deep sense of relaxation, release, and renewed energy.

How Does Dry Cupping Work?

Gentle suction created by cupping draws blood upward from underlying fascia and muscle tissue, which promotes circulation, reduces muscle tension and inflammation, and supports the body’s natural healing processes. It often follows acupuncture and targets similar therapeutic points, particularly along the back.

Cupping is especially effective for relieving chronic and acute pain in the back, shoulders, and neck, and may also ease respiratory issues such as asthma.