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Acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely fine needles into acupuncture points on the body. After insertion, needles are gently stimulated to produce a distending sensation around the point and along the channel. Only sterile, disposable, single-use stainless steel needles are used in treatments.

There are over 360 acupuncture points located on the human body, and these acupuncture points are places where arteries, veins and nerves supply the superficial regions of the body. The majority of acupuncture points are located on one of 14 main channels. According to Chinese medical theory, blood, nutrients, air and vital substances circulate through these channels. When there is normal flow of these substances through the channels, a person is healthy. If there is a blockage in the channels, a person will often become sick. By needling appropriate acupuncture points, an acupuncturist aims to unblock these channels and stimulate the body’s natural healing response.

In Western terms, acupuncture has been shown to stimulate endocrine glands, alter the release of neurotransmitters and hormones, promote tissue healing and increase the release of endorphins.

Dry needling is a form of trigger point acupuncture whereby needles are directly inserted into tight muscles and painful areas on the body. This technique helps to reduce muscle spasms and promote blood flow, allowing for improved range of motion and decreased tightness, swelling and pain in the affected area.

Electro-acupuncture involves using a TENS unit and applying a low level of electrical current to the needles. This helps to decrease pain and inflammation and can provide a stronger acupuncture treatment for stubborn pain conditions.

Acupuncture is wonderful for kids! Kelley has additional training in pediatric acupuncture and enjoys getting to know her younger patients and seeing how quickly they often respond to treatment. We use either tiny acupuncture needles or a variety of point-stimulating acupressure tools for pediatric treatments in our clinic. Most children love the appointments and are fascinated by the process, often wanting to take photos to show their friends. During these visits we also teach parents at-home techniques to support their children’s wellness.

Acupuncture is a wonderful therapy for those trying to conceive either by natural means or with the assistance of IVF therapy. It helps to regulate hormones and menstrual cycles, promote blood flow to the uterus and reduce stress levels. Many IVF clinics recommend adjunctive acupuncture treatment, and Kelley has worked with many women going through the IVF process at various clinics on the Front Range. She is happy to communicate with the acupuncturists that patients are currently working with at IVF clinics to make sure treatments are consistent and streamlined.

For pregnant women, acupuncture also helps to minimize any negative side effects of pregnancy such as nausea, heartburn, sciatica and back pain. It can help to stimulate labor for those who are approaching their due dates. Moxibustion also can be used in combination with acupuncture to help turn a breech baby.

There are over 5,000 herbs in the Chinese materia medica. These herbs are powerful substances that can effectively treat many chronic and acute diseases. Herbs are combined together into formulas that can be personalized for each patient. Chinese herbal formulas can be decocted and taken as a tea, or they can be taken in powder or pill form. At Yampa Valley Acupuncture patients have a choice between taking herbal formulas in granular (powder) or pill form.

Moxibustion involves burning the plant Artemisia vulgaris, also known as “moxa.” This herb is either burned directly on the skin or indirectly above the skin to promote circulation and warm the body. Moxibustion is also commonly used to help turn a breech baby.