Electro-Acupuncture

What is electro-acupuncture?

Electro-acupuncture is also known as e-stim or electrical stimulation. Acupuncture needles are placed in the body and certain select ones are then connected together using small clips and a wire that are connected to a battery powered device that delivers small electrical impulses or current.

This electrode provides a gentle vibration that stimulates energy running through these points. A unique advantage of electro-acupuncture is its ability to simulate an area larger than the needle itself.

The device is adjustable so we alter the frequency and intensity of the pulse that is delivered. The skill involved is to select the correct intensity for the condition and patient. There is now a lot of published research and clinical experience documenting which levels of electro-acupuncture treat different conditions optimally.

Electro-acupuncture is used to treat a wide variety of ailments. Some of the conditions treated by electro-acupuncture are:

  • Arthritis

  • High Blood Pressure

  • Neurological diseases

  • Chronic pain

  • Muscle spasms

  • Paralysis

  • Sprains & Back Pain

  • Infertility

  • Skin Conditions

  • Chemotherapy-related nausea

What does it feel like?

The majority of patients feel a pulse, a tingling or warmth. Some are lulled by the vibrations to a deeper rest. Sometimes it is desirable to get a twitch response or contraction in a muscle as the pulse or charge comes and goes. 

Patients are always in control of the intensity of electro-acupuncture and communication is maintained throughout the treatment about what they are experiencing. That way we ensure stimulation levels remain comfortable and produce optimal results.  

Electro-acupuncture is NOT recommended for people with the following conditions:

  • Pregnant people

  • Heart disease

  • Seizures

  • Strokes

  • Epilepsy

  • Those with pace makers