What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the practice of inserting very fine needles into points on the body to stimulate specific reactions such as increased blood flow, increased oxygenation, release of muscle adhesions, and modulation of pain signals. Acupuncture has been practiced for over 2000 years, and in that time has evolved into a sophisticated healing modality.
Acupuncture works

Acupuncture is one branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine, a comprehensive system of medicine that includes unique diagnostic and treatment skills. At Ravenswood Healing Arts we utilize the full range of TCM modalities including Herbal Medicine, Tuina Bodywork, Taiji (Tai Chi) and Qigong instruction, moxibusion, and cupping.
Acupuncture is well-known as a safe and effective method for pain relief. One of the mechanisms that help explain acupuncture's effects is the modulation of neurotransmitters, most famously the endogenous opioids. This effect also helps explain why acupuncture often has a calming or relaxing effect. By helping promote the "Relaxation Response" (a well-documented set of physiological phenomena associated with the parasympathetic nervous system), acupuncture brings about improvements in digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, and immune system health.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approach, acupuncture facilitates improved flow of Qi in the body, by draining stagnant buildup or supplementing areas of weakness. We favor individualized, gentle, natural harmonization of the mind and body over harsh, standardized care. In the video below, Dr. Mattson tells the story of legendary king Yu the Great as a way of understanding the cultural reverence for clever redirection over brute force:
Acupuncture is well-known as a safe and effective method for pain relief. One of the mechanisms that help explain acupuncture's effects is the modulation of neurotransmitters, most famously the endogenous opioids. This effect also helps explain why acupuncture often has a calming or relaxing effect. By helping promote the "Relaxation Response" (a well-documented set of physiological phenomena associated with the parasympathetic nervous system), acupuncture brings about improvements in digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, and immune system health.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approach, acupuncture facilitates improved flow of Qi in the body, by draining stagnant buildup or supplementing areas of weakness. We favor individualized, gentle, natural harmonization of the mind and body over harsh, standardized care. In the video below, Dr. Mattson tells the story of legendary king Yu the Great as a way of understanding the cultural reverence for clever redirection over brute force: