Pain is triggered by your nervous system; it is the way your brain alerts you that there is an energy imbalance the body. It can be constant, piercing, dull, localized, short-term, or manifest in some other way, such as mentally or emotionally. From the Chinese medicine perspective, pain can be a signal that there is blockage in an energy channel, and/or there may be an energy deficit. Pain can be very frustrating for anyone, since over-the-counter medications and other manual therapies may not provide enough relief. With acupuncture, Dr. Smith will unblock the energy stoppage in your body that is causing you so much pain. By carefully placing acupuncture needles along specific pathways, or meridians, on your body, your energy will begin to release and flow properly, which will begin the abatement of your pain and other symptoms. Endorphins and neurotransmitters released by acupuncture help to improve your pain from the very first visit. Ask Dr. Smith what you can expect from acupuncture based on your specific pain level and condition. Since everyone experiences pain in different ways, she will guide you through her recommended treatment plan only after meeting you and taking a detailed history of your health.