Acupuncture: Balancing the Body for Optimal Health

Acupuncture employs the use of fine, sterile needles placed into designated points along the body, referred to as acupoints. These points are situated along channels, or meridians, which are believed to be the routes through which the life force, or Qi, circulates. Disruptions or imbalances in Qi can manifest as pain, discomfort, or disease. By targeting these acupoints, acupuncture aims to clear these blockages and restore the natural flow of energy, facilitating the body’s healing mechanisms.

For patients with needle phobia, we offer acupressure as an alternative. Acupressure uses the same healing principles but involves applying gentle pressure to acupoints, providing a similar therapeutic benefit without the use of needles. This option allows even the most sensitive patients to experience the healing power of Oriental Medicine.

Treating the Whole Body with Acupuncture

At our center, we are committed to deep healing that targets the underlying reasons for health issues, rather than merely alleviating symptoms. Acupuncture serves as a comprehensive therapy option, effective for a broad spectrum of conditions, including:

• Pain management: Acupuncture is an effective solution for both acute and chronic pain, as it helps to lessen inflammation, enhance blood flow, and alleviate pain. It is especially beneficial for treating conditions such as back pain, arthritis, migraines, and fibromyalgia.

• Stress, anxiety, and emotional health: Acupuncture aids in moderating the body’s response to stress by soothing the nervous system and fostering a sense of relaxation. This treatment proves beneficial in alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia, assisting individuals in attaining emotional stability.

• Digestive health: From IBS to bloating and acid reflux, acupuncture can enhance digestive function by regulating the stomach and intestines. The therapy also helps manage food sensitivities, promoting better absorption of nutrients and reducing inflammation in the gut.

• Immune system support: Acupuncture has been shown to boost immune function, making it an excellent therapy for those suffering from autoimmune conditions, chronic infections, or seasonal allergies.

• Hormonal balance: Whether you’re dealing with PMS, menopause, or thyroid imbalances, acupuncture can help regulate hormonal function and reduce symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and weight gain.

• Functional medicine integration: We integrate acupuncture with functional medicine to treat chronic conditions such as metabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and insulin resistance, addressing the underlying imbalances in the body.

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

In Traditional Oriental Medicine, health is achieved when the body’s energy, blood, and fluids are in balance. This ancient approach is holistic, recognizing the connection between the physical body, emotional health, and environmental factors. Acupuncture taps into these principles, using the body’s healing mechanisms to restore balance across all systems.

At The Functional Medicine Center of New Jersey, we combine the insights of Oriental Medicine with the precision of functional medicine. By looking at the root causes of illness—whether it’s due to stress, poor diet, inflammation, or toxicity—we create personalized acupuncture treatment plans that support your whole-body health.

Scientific Support for Acupuncture

1. Pain Management and Acupuncture A 2020 meta-analysis found that acupuncture significantly reduced chronic pain across multiple conditions, including osteoarthritis, back pain, and migraines. The study concluded that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for pain management, providing relief that lasts beyond the treatment period.

2. Acupuncture and Stress Reduction Research published in 2018 demonstrated that acupuncture regulates the body’s stress response by balancing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Patients in the study reported decreased stress levels and improved emotional well-being after receiving regular acupuncture treatments. 

For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 70 East Allendale Rd., Saddle River, NJ 07458. We serve patients from Saddle River NJ, Wyckoff NJ, Ramsey NJ, Montvale NJ, Paramus NJ, Franklin Lakes NJ, Waldwick NJ, and surrounding areas.