Auricular Acupuncture (Acudetox)

Also known as auricular acupuncture, acuDetox has proven effective in easing anxiety and fear that often consumes those struggling with drug  and alcohol addiction and impedes their recovery.

The procedure was developed in 1985 by the National Acupuncture  Detoxification Association. Its goal was to manage behavioral health  symptoms of such problems as addiction, trauma, stress, and insomnia.

National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) professionals have devised a five-point acupuncture treatment. These five sites  correlate with three major organs: lungs, liver, and kidneys. Often, these organs have been found to be affected by stress and ongoing substance use. The other two additional points of placement are for the  sympathetic nervous system and sleep.

This procedure called AcuDetox involves gently placing five small,  sterilized disposable needles into specific sites on each ear. After the  placement occurs, it takes between thirty and forty-five minutes for  the treatment to take effect. During that time, clients can sit  individually or in a group.

AcuDetox is a research based adjunct therapy that is clinically  effective and drug-free. When used in combination with counseling, and medical support, it can be increasingly beneficial in helping clients recover long-term from substance abuse. In addition to being inexpensive, effective, and natural, reported  clinical benefits to include reducing mental health issues related to: 

• PTSD
• ADHD symptoms

Feelings of calm and peacefulness are often reported shortly after  treatment begins, as the stimulation of ear acupuncture points indicates a systemic release of endorphins. This treatment modality can be used  on adults from all cultural and ethnic groups, as well. Lastly, it has  shown to reduce craving and decrease overall withdrawal symptoms.

Studies have shown that using AcuDetox as part of a patient’s therapy produces encouraging results.

• AcuDetox eased the cravings for such substances as drugs, alcohol, and nicotine.
• Acudetox minimized withdrawal symptoms.
• Acudetox benefits increased feelings of calm or serenity.
• Those who had AcuDetox reported having better sleep patterns and feeling less agitated.
• Those who received AcuDetox treatment reported greater relief from stress and emotional trauma.
• When patients received AcuDetox, counseling was more effective.
• Patients who had AcuDetox felt inner strength and peace.
• Acudetox assists in managing behavioral health symptoms.

As with other types of acupuncture, the risks are low. Our AcuDetox expert are both competent and well trained. They take great pride in using acupuncture capably using sterile needles  of the right size for AcuDetox. 

Patients may experience soreness, bruising, or bleeding in the five points where the needles are inserted.