Acupuncture Medicine
Acupuncture is a medical treatment derived from ancient Chinese medicine. Thin needles are inserted into different points on the skin stimulating nerves, muscles, and connective tissue to help regulate the flow of energy and help the body come back into balance. Studies have suggested that it can ameliorate acute and chronic pain, stress and anxiety, and tobacco/substance dependence.
The World Health Organization stated that acupuncture can be helpful for:
Acute sinusitis/rhinitis
Common cold
Acute tonsillitis
Bronchopulmonary Diseases
Acute bronchitis
Bronchial asthma
Eye Disorders
Cataract (without complications) Myopia
Central retinitis
Disorders of the Mouth Cavity
Orthopedic Disorders
Sciatica, Low back pain
Rheumatoid arthritis
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Acute and chronic gastritis
Acute and chronic colitis
Constipation, Diarrhea
Paralytic ileus
Neurologic Disorders
Headache
Migraine
Trigeminal neuralgia
Facial paralysis
Peripheral neuropathy
Meniere's syndrome
Neurogenic bladder dysfunction
Nocturnal enuresis
Intercostal neuralgia
How does it work?
The scientific explanation is that the needles inserted at appropriate points stimulate the nervous system to release chemical and hormones that affect the body's internal regulating system.
How many treatments do you need?
This differs from person to person. For more chronic complex condition 1-2 weekly treatments spread over months may be required. Acute issues may require fewer visits. For health maintenance annual to quarterly visits may be all that is needed.
Do the needles hurt?
Acupuncture needles are made of stainless steel and are extremely thin. Most patients only feel mild discomfort while the needles are being inserted; many feel no pain at all.
Meet our physician acupuncturist
Audrey Le, MD
Physician Acupuncturist
Dr. Le received her MD from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2002 and has been practicing medicine for over a decade. After seeing all the benefits that acupuncture can offer patients, she completed an additional certification in medical acupuncture and is among a small group of licensed physician acupuncturists in Louisiana.