A perfect balance of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medicines, Auricular Medicine is a non-invasive therapy designed to combine the best of both acupressure and acupuncture. These therapies work by manipulating the energy meridians that run through the body, all of which end in the ear, either directly or indirectly.  By using the endings of the same energy meridians, Auricular Medicine can be used to treat the whole body. In fact, most treatments leave patients feeling relaxed, aware and feeling good.  Most report having a better night’s sleep and more energy during the day, even if these were not the concerns being addressed.  As a needle-free treatment, small bead-like seeds are fixed onto specific points using hypo-allergenic tape.  They remain on the ear for a period of time (usually 7 days), providing stimulation the whole time they are there.  Regularly through the day or when the treatment needs a “boost”, the patient will massage the points as directed.   After the recommended period of time, the patient removes the seeds on their own, similar to removing a Band-Aid.  While treatments should not be painful, the ears can sometimes feel tender, hot or cold after treatment.  This is completely normal and should subside.  If it is too uncomfortable, the seeds can be removed early, though this greatly reduces the effectiveness of treatment.

Expanding on traditional acupuncture points in the ear, modern points have been thoroughly studied and documented. When these points are stimulated, the corresponding body part experiences a measureable change in temperature, reduction in inflammation or pain, or a positive change in function.  Likewise, when a body isn’t working right, evidence can be found on the corresponding points of the ear – a change in color, shape, texture, or varicosity.  Generally, your treatment will begin with a visual inspection of the ear for these possible changes, followed by point location, seed application and finished with a massage.  Some treatments include the use of a lancet at the beginning of the treatment to help promote circulation and reduce inflammation; however, this is optional and will be discussed during the assessment.