Areas Of Specialty / Auricular Acupuncture

The Functional Osteopath

Auricular Acupuncture

 

Photo Credit: The College of Aricular Acupunture

Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, this ancient healing art is often described as reflexology for the ear. There are over 200 points located in the ear that represent a micro-system of the body and address both emotional and physical aspects. It was the work of Dr. Paul Nogier in the late 50’s who demonstrated that the ear is actually a mini map of the body, an inverted foetus that represents all body parts. This map allows for the diagnosis of conditions through examination of the ear itself that is precise. The connections of the nerve endings in the ear to hormonal networks and organs in the body allows for the successful treatment of many conditions.

How Auricular Acupuncture Works

Each acupoint treated stimulates electrical impulses through the neural pathways to the brain resulting in a physiological response affecting the corresponding anatomical area.  The immediate effect is pain reduction through stimulation of the brains pain modulation system that controls the release of your own endorphins, enkephalins and other pain modulating chemicals, but also a more profound effect achieved through stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system.

During treatment you may feel a little prick with the insertion of the needle and warming sensation after, but many dont feel anything at all.  Positive effects can occur in one session but typically the protocols used have a minimum of 5 treatments on average.  This also depends on the condition.  Auricular acupuncture can be used in addition to medical acupuncture or manual therapy to prolong their effects.  It is widely used for pain control of many musculoskeletal conditions, addictions, PMT, depression, anxiety, migraines, tension headaches, asthma, allergies and more.  The protocols used are specific for these conditions in addition to Detox and Nada protocols.  Get in touch to see how I can help you.