Acupuncture
At University of Maryland Orthopaedics, our patients can access classical Chinese acupuncture, a non-opioid option for treating chronic pain, in combination with other modern medical treatments.
As part of the University of Maryland School of Medicine faculty practice, our acupuncturists bring an exceptional level of education and expertise to their work. They see patients with a broad range of medical conditions.
Call 410-448-6400 for an appointment or request an appointment online at several of the UM Orthopaedics locations where acupuncture is offered.
What Is Acupuncture?
According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture promotes the body’s innate ability to heal itself by balancing the flow of the body’s qi, a form of electromagnetic energy, and channeling it through pathways in the body.
Research shows that acupuncture may exert its effect by causing natural chemicals in the brain, such as endorphins, to ease up the pain and other discomfort.
How Acupuncture Works
Tiny needles are inserted along these channels at areas of maximum energy, known as acupuncture points. The process is generally painless and the needles are a fraction of the size used in other procedures.
Patients are typically seen two to three times per week with the goal of once every two weeks when the condition is well managed. Sessions run 30-45 minutes.
What an Acupuncturist Treats
Alone or as an adjunct to Western Medicine, this non-opioid pain management technique treats pain stemming from injuries and arthritis as well as provides relief from the symptoms of a range of other conditions, such as:
- Allergies, asthma and chronic sinusitis
- Arthritis and other joint and spine pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome and other nerve pain
- Cancer discomfort (Acupuncture services are part of pain management at UM Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center.)
- Fibromyalgia
- Gastrointestinal conditions (IBD, heartburn/GERD, constipation)
- Headache/migraine
- High blood pressure
- Pregnancy discomfort
- Smoking cessation
- Weight management
Traditional Chinese Medicine
In addition to acupuncture, we offer traditional Chinese medicine services. such as:
- Auricular acupuncture – focusing on just the more than 200 acupuncture points in the ear
- Chinese herbal medicine – our acupuncturists are schooled in this ancient healing art
- Cupping – small glass cups that create suction on the skin to increase blood circulation
- Tuina – pressure on certain acupoints and muscles to open up blood flow and reduce pain
