ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENTS
Charlotte, NC | Fort Mill, SC

Acupuncture

Acupuncture Is An Energy-Based Medicine That Is One Of The Oldest And Still One Of The Most Widely Practiced Forms Of Medicine In The World. Acupuncture Supports The Body’s Innate Healing Potential By Improving Microcirculation, Increasing Tissue Healing, Regulating Hormones And Calming The Nervous System. Acupuncture Is Extremely Gentle But Powerful Because It Stimulates The Body’s Own Resources.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the keystones of Chinese Medicine, a 5,000 year old approach to medicine which is as valid today as it was five millennium ago. The oldest medical text book in the world, 4,700 years old, describes acupuncture and the theory behind it.

The fundamental theory surrounding it, is that there is an energy force flowing throughout the body. This force, known as Qi, comprises all of the essential aspects of life--physical, emotional, and spiritual.

Qi flows through various channels throughout the body, called "meridians". When the flow of Qi is impeded, illness can result. According to Chinese Medicine, there are fourteen primary meridians running in pairs vertically up and down the surface of the body. When the body is balanced, all is well. However, there are times when the body falls out of balance and this balance must be restored through Chinese medicinal practices. CM teaches that the body falls out of balance due to an imbalance of two forces that comprise Qi: Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang are opposite forces, like the positive and negative forces surrounding an atom. Just as an atom is composed of both positive and negative charges and cannot be found alone, so living beings and their components are composed of Yin and Yang that constantly flow among each other to create the Qi. When there is too much Yin or too little Yang or too little Yin and too much Yang, the Qi is disturbed, the body falls out of balance, and there is illness.

Acupuncture is used to restore the imbalance between Yin and Yang and allow the Qi to freely flow throughout the meridians. Acupuncture points are specific locations where the Meridians come to the surface of the skin and are easily accessible by "needling" them. This needling restores the balance of Yin and Yang and improves the flow of Qi. Western scientists have noted the successful applications of acupuncture and have tried to determine why it works.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

There are numerous theories about how acupuncture works. Some of them are:

Acupuncture stimulates the release of pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins and serotonin.
The stimulated points raise the level of hormones in the body and improve the overall body's immunity levels.
Acupuncture influences the release of neurotransmitters, substances that transmit nerve impulses to the brain.
Acupuncture influences the autonomic nervous system.
Acupuncture dilates the blood vessels, possibly by stimulating the body to release vasodilators such as histamine.
Acupuncture stimulates the secretion of endorphins to reduce pain.
Acupuncture influences the electrical currents of the body.
Acupuncture stimulates the body’s pituitary gland to release cortisol, a hormone that is known to reduce inflammation.

Acupuncture FAQs

Does acupuncture work?

Yes, acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years and is recognized for its ability to support the body's natural healing processes. At Blue Root Health, we use acupuncture to improve circulation, promote tissue healing, regulate hormones, and calm the nervous system. Many of our patients experience relief from chronic pain, stress, digestive issues, and hormonal imbalances. Acupuncture is backed by both ancient wisdom and modern research, making it a powerful tool for overall health and well-being.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to restore balance and promote healing. It is based on the concept of Qi (energy flow) and the body's meridian system. At Blue Root Health, we use acupuncture not only to address pain but also to support whole-body wellness, including digestion, immune function, and emotional well-being. Our approach integrates time-tested Eastern techniques with modern holistic health principles to deliver the best possible outcomes.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and balance the nervous system. When the needles are inserted, they trigger the body's natural healing responses, releasing endorphins and other pain-relieving chemicals. At Blue Root Health, we customize acupuncture treatments to address each patient’s unique health concerns, whether it’s managing chronic pain, reducing stress, or improving energy levels. Our goal is to help your body heal naturally and function optimally.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is extremely gentle yet powerful. Most patients report little to no discomfort, often describing the sensation as a slight tingling, warmth, or a feeling of deep relaxation. At Blue Root Health, we ensure that treatments are as comfortable as possible, using high-quality, ultra-thin needles and a patient-centered approach. Many people find acupuncture sessions to be deeply soothing, often feeling refreshed and re-energized afterward.

What does acupuncture do?

Acupuncture helps the body heal by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, and regulating the nervous system. It can be used to address a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, stress, digestive disorders, insomnia, hormonal imbalances, and immune system dysfunction. At Blue Root Health, our acupuncture treatments are tailored to support each patient’s unique health goals, promoting long-term wellness and vitality.

Should acupuncture be painful?

No, acupuncture should not be painful. While some individuals may feel a mild tingling or a dull ache at certain points, most find the experience to be relaxing. At Blue Root Health, we prioritize patient comfort, ensuring that treatments are gentle and effective. If you have concerns about sensitivity, our experienced practitioners will adjust the technique to make your session as comfortable as possible.

Does acupuncture help with weight loss?

Acupuncture can support weight loss by improving metabolism, reducing stress, balancing hormones, and curbing cravings. By regulating the body’s energy flow and digestive function, acupuncture helps promote a healthier relationship with food and enhances the body's ability to process nutrients efficiently. At Blue Root Health, we combine acupuncture with lifestyle recommendations, dietary guidance, and herbal medicine to create a comprehensive weight management plan tailored to each patient.

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

No, dry needling and acupuncture are not the same, although they both use thin needles. Dry needling is a Western technique primarily used to release muscle tension by targeting trigger points. Acupuncture, on the other hand, is a holistic approach that considers the entire body's energy flow and focuses on restoring balance, promoting healing, and improving overall well-being. At Blue Root Health, we offer acupuncture as a natural and effective way to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall health beyond just muscle relief.

The Treatment

Our initial consultation is 60 minutes, allowing us to thoroughly assess your health concerns and create a personalized treatment plan. Follow-up treatments range from 60 to 120 minutes, depending on your specific needs. During these sessions, the doctor will spend 30-45 minutes with you, followed by a 30-minute period where you will retain the acupuncture needles to maximize the therapeutic benefits.

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

Before I started receiving Eastern medicine services from Dr. Soto I was in bad shape from head to toe. My sister in Jax, Fl. found Dr. Soto services blue root and referred me to her for Eastern medicine services. I am a retired nurse practitioner and I resided in South Carolina. I have fibromyalgia which is a chronic pain condition which causes other medical conditions such as GERD, migraines, joint pain, IBS just to name a few. I was taking so many medications the western medicine way for treating all of my mental and physical conditions. I was so tired of feeling anxious,fatigued, gaining weight, experiencing pain daily, being depressed and more. I wasn't getting better while taking so many medications with western medicine treatments for years. I was so blessed to find Dr. Soto and start receiving treatment for all of my issues. I received an appointment immediately. Dr. Soto listened and was very compassionate. I began to feel so much better coming off of all of the medications I was taking. Dr. Soto's plan of care for me was so perfect and detailed for me. I began to wear clothes that I had not worn in years. My hair and skin improved, I started sleeping throughout the night, I was no longer paranoid, anxious and gaining weight. I followed the meal plan Dr. Soto recommended for life. Acupuncture and special herbal treatments helped me mentally and physically. I was no longer having pain from head to toe. Dr. Soto was my blessing from God. Thank you Dr. Soto for your patience and sharing your gift of healing.

Carla Walker

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