Acupuncture and Addiction

Innovative methods are continually being sought to reduce the harm caused by the use/abuse of Drugs and Alcohol. Auricular Ear Acupuncture is one such invocation that has been found to be effective in helping those affected by substance abuse (Drugs, alcohol, nicotine and or addictive behaviors like gambling and eating.) It helps decrease the severity of cravings, body aches, headaches, nausea sweating and muscle cramping. Although Acupuncture can be used safely with other health conditions, please let the acupuncturist know if you have any health problems. People receiving acupuncture also report that they sleep better, feel less depressed, and are more relaxed.

According to Chinese medicine, placing acupuncture needles in the ear affects different parts of the body, such as liver, kidneys, lungs, and heart.

Western medicine has confirmed that acupuncture treatments change chemical levels in the body and act on the nervous system.

Acupuncture is currently used in the treatment of addictions by approximately 1000 substance use programs around the world. In the Maritimes, the first Acupuncture clinic was established in Dartmouth in 1999 and later expanded to Halifax, Musquodoboit, Windsor, Sackville, and Spryfield.

Five new, sterile, disposable needles are inserted just under the skin as Specific Points on the external ear. Needles remain in the ear for approximately 45 minutes. Inserting the extremely fin needles in the ear causes minimal discomfort. Treatment time should be used to sit quietly, relax and reflect or medicine.

Acupuncture will help to keep you on track and to remain focused. Behaviors which respond well to acupuncture include the use/abuse of drugs/alcohol, nicotine as well as gambling and overeating.

Acupuncture Effects

Physical: