In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), many microsystems, or using one part of the body to map out the entire body, are used. The ears, hands and feet have more nerve endings than other parts of the body, making them very effective treatment points.

Although Paul Nogier is considered the father of modern auricular (ear) acupuncture, using the microsystem of the ear to diagnose and treat the body with needles was used long ago in China. Nogier was the first to map out the points in a way that is useful today. His diagram of the ear looks like an upside-down baby, with the feet at the top of the ear and the face in the lobe. With it, all parts of the body and the emotional components of the major TCM organ systems can be treated, making it the most widely used microsystem of acupuncture.

Auricular acupuncture can be a primary mode of treatment or it can be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment. Probably the most common use of auricular acupuncture is the five-needle National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) protocol, used in detox clinics and acupuncture clinics to help treat addiction.

In acupuncture clinics, this protocol is not just used for drug and alcohol addiction, but can also help with quitting cigarettes and losing weight. Unlike in a detox clinic, acupuncture clinics use acupuncture points on the body along with the auricular points. The NADA protocol is also helpful for insomnia, stress, anxiety and overall wellness, even if the patient has no addictions.

Others that may be used are the American College of Addictionology and Compulsive Disorders (ACACD) protocol for aggressive and compulsive behaviors and post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) for not only veterans, but for anyone that has experienced a traumatic event and needs help processing and letting go of it. Pain can often be relieved using these protocols because many illnesses stem from emotional trauma.

Because the ear represents a map of the entire body, ailments that can be treated using it include back pain, neck pain, digestive issues, sinus issues and more. The number of needles in the ear will be five or six and the patient may be sent home with seeds, tacks or beads affixed on the back with tape. This allows the treatment to continue after the patient has left the clinic. The patient can press on the treated spots throughout the day to be proactive and also at times when the patient feels they are needed.

Gathering Point Community Acupuncture is located at 1927 E. Grant Rd. For more information, call 520-777-7444 or visit GpcAcupuncture.com.