A local acupuncturist is a wellness provider who uses the ancient technique of acupuncture to treat patients. Acupuncture, which is over 3,000 years old, is a type of Chinese medicine aimed at improving the body’s flow of qi(chi). Many people see a local acupuncturist for wellness treatments, including those who have cancer, digestive disorders, infertility, insomnia, anxiety and arthritis. Obesity has become a global epidemic. Stats show that more than two billion adults are overweight and 600 million are obese. People who are obese or overweight may work with a local acupuncturist in addition to their other health care providers. Other health care providers may include your local family physician, pharmacist, registered dietitian, rheumatologist, nutritionist, kinesiologist, massage therapist and athletic therapist. 

The local acupuncturist will insert thin needles into various points of the body; ear acupuncture is often used. Acupuncture may help obese patients reduce sodium, improve digestion, reduce water retention, increase metabolism, reduce anxiety and decrease inflammation. If you’d like more information on how a local acupuncturist can help, start by talking to your local family physician or pharmacist. Your health care team can work together to ensure that you have the best treatment plan possible.