Traditional Acupuncture
Michael Clements MA. Lic. Ac.
Plymouth Launceston Callington
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Michael uses Auricular Acupuncture as an adjunct to body acupuncture and to treat addictions.
Auricular (or ear) Acupuncture is a specialist complementary therapy where acupuncture points on the outer ear are treated with small, sterile, disposable needles, in order to treat many different chronic complaints. In Auricular Acupuncture the ear is regarded as a micro-system of the body. The auricle is covered with nearly 200 different acupoints – each one corresponding to a particular area of the anatomy. An Auricular Acupuncture treatment involves placing 5 or 6 small, sterile needles in each ear. The points chosen correspond to the area of the body or condition needing treatment. Small press needles or acupressure magnets may be placed on selected points, between sessions, in order to enhance and prolong the effects of the treatment.
Auricular acupuncture is believed to help with detoxification and has a calming effect that restores a sense of harmony. Three of the five stimulated points strengthen the liver, kidneys and lungs, which are key organs in the elimination of toxins in the body. The treatment aims to boost the level of endorphins, or feel-good chemicals in the brain, enabling the patients to rationalise and control their behaviour.
Very fine, sterile needles are inserted into five key points in the ear. There may be a slight pinching sensation as the needles are inserted, but this is momentary. They are left for up to 40 minutes, during which time the patient sits quietly, without speaking. Between sessions, patients can have acupressure balls placed on the acupuncture points, to keep them stimulated. These are usually seeds, studs, pellets or tiny ball-bearings, held in place with sticking plaster.
Michael is trained in the 5 needle detoxification protocol as practiced by SMART (Substance Misuse Acupuncture Register and Training) and NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) trained practitioners. Michael is SMART registered.