Question for Dr. Josh: To somebody who is very fearful of needles, can you explain why acupuncture relies on needles, what's the point and why needles are an essential part of the treatment, but also maybe why not fear it?
Yeah that's a good question. Acupuncture uses needles in order to coerce the nervous system to be in harmony with itself. There's a lot of competing vibrations and effects that the body sends back to the brain, in terms of the stimulation, and when those aren't working together we have dis-integration or dis-ease in the body. What the acupuncture needle does, is put a very talented musician next to somebody who is not doing their job appropriately, in order to show them how to stay in rhythm, how to stay in tune, and the body naturally melts that information into homeostasis; which is the body's natural way of balancing itself, right?
When we get hot, we cool off; when we get dry, we moisten; when we get empty, we fill up.
That's all very natural, and that's happening all the time. When that falls apart, it's because of a lack of communication and that communication has been shown through evidence with patients, even on lab animals that the brain re-connects things that are disconnected with acupuncture. The needles are needed because stimulation of the nervous system is how the body changes habits from what kind of works a little bit, to what's optimal.
The stimulation that I give is not sharp or stabbing as if I'm drawing blood, or getting a vaccine type needle. Our needles are as thick as human hair and no thicker. Our needles in the hands of an expert practitioner will move through the skin quickly and not cause that sensation, and when it reaches the target, then there is a sense of peace and calm, the endorphins kick in, almost like a massage. There is a spreading and a quieting, in a relaxing sensation and the grand majority of my patients find it very comforting and positive as an experience not just in the effect.
About Dr. Josh Eha, DAOM, L.Ac., C.SMA
Dr. Josh Eha, DAOM, L.Ac, C.SMA brings a sophisticated, holistic approach to the art of medicine in Minnesota. In just a few visits, he will catalyze the growth and healing you have been looking for- even after failed surgery, physical therapy, meds, or chiropractic. This video is part of our Educational Series at Trailhead Health, where our community of amazing Doctors and Practitioners share their experiences to help answer your health-related questions.