Why Does My Acupuncturist Place Needles Where I Wouldn’t Expect to Treat My Condition?
Acupuncturists use a very targeted, whole-body approach to treating disease and correcting imbalances. Rather than just targeting the part of the body for treatment in the “area of interest”, they work on a series of lines of communication called Meridians that “talk to” the area of the body under consideration. The placement of needles is based on Chinese Medicine principles, which view the body as an interconnected super – highway of energy pathways.
The Miraculous Healing Capabilities of Acupuncture:
Balancing the Body’s Energy (Qi) – Symptoms in one area often arise due to imbalances in another. Needles are placed in different locations to restore the flow of Qi (vital energy) throughout the body.
Targeting Meridians Related to Your Condition – Each meridian connects different organs and body parts. Even if you have a headache, an acupuncturist may place needles on your hands, feet, or back to influence the meridian associated with the head.
Using Distal Points for a Stronger Effect – Needles may be inserted far from the affected area to stimulate circulation, reduce pain, and promote healing. For example, points on the legs or hands can treat digestive or emotional imbalances.
Addressing Root Causes, Not Just Symptoms – Acupuncture isn’t just about symptom relief; it’s about restoring harmony. If your lower back hurts, the cause may be related to kidney energy, stress, or poor digestion, requiring points elsewhere.
Enhancing the Nervous System and Circulation – Acupuncture activates the body’s natural healing mechanisms by stimulating the nervous system, increasing blood flow, and releasing endorphins.
What Points Can I Expect for Back Pain that May Not Be In My Back?
- Hand & Wrist Points (LI4, SI3) – These points help release tension in the spine and improve circulation, even though they’re far from the back.
- Back of the Knee (UB40) – A key point for lower back pain, as the Urinary Bladder meridian runs all the way from the head down the back and through the legs.
- Feet (KD3, UB60) – The Kidney meridian is deeply connected to the back in Chinese Medicine, and points near the ankle can strengthen Kidney energy to relieve chronic back pain.
At Wild Sage Acupuncture, Megan Sewell, LAc. is an expert at tailoring treatments to individual back pain conditions, ensuring each patient receives the most effective care.
How Might a Treatment Look for Menstrual Disorders (Pain, Irregularity, PMS, Heavy Flow)?
- Ankles (SP6, KD6) – These points regulate the uterus, harmonize hormones, and promote smooth menstrual flow.
- Lower Back (UB32, UB23) – Points along the sacrum and lower back nourish the reproductive system and relieve cramping.
- Inner Wrist (PC6) – A key point for calming emotional imbalances (stress, anxiety, mood swings) related to menstrual cycles.
- Abdomen (CV4, CV6) – Strengthens reproductive energy and regulates cycles by boosting Qi and Blood flow.
Megan Sewell, LAc. employs a holistic approach that addresses menstrual related conditions and the underlying factors that contribute to them.
What About Disorders of the Lungs, Immune System, or Liver?
In Chinese Medicine, the Lung meridian runs from the chest down the inner arm to the thumb, so points on your arms can strongly influence lung function. This is why acupuncturists often use points on the wrist or forearm for respiratory issues, immunity, and even emotional grief (since the lungs are associated with grief in TCM).
For your liver, the Liver meridian starts at the big toe and travels up the leg into the torso. Many powerful liver-regulating points are found on the feet and lower legs. The liver is crucial in Chinese Medicine for smooth Qi flow, detoxification, digestion, and emotional balance (especially anger and frustration). Needling your feet helps regulate these functions.
Your acupuncturist is using a meridian-based approach, treating organs through their respective pathways rather than directly needling the organ itself. That’s the beauty of acupuncture—it works systemically to create balance.
Wild Sage Acupuncture: “Accurately” Treating Your Condition!
Megan Sewell, LAc. brings years of experience and a deep understanding of the meridians. With a compassionate approach and a commitment to personalized care, she has established herself as leaders in acupuncture treatments for chronic conditions like back pain, headaches, and reproductive system disorders. For those in the Salt Lake City area struggling with chronic conditions, acupuncture offers a path to relief and wellness. Through its unique pain management and holistic healing approach, Wild Sage Acupuncture stands out as a premier destination for those seeking an alternative or complementary treatment. Embrace the journey towards a pain-free, stress-free experience and discover how acupuncture can transform your health and well-being. Contact us today to book an appointment and take the first step on your wellness journey.
