Acuphoria Acupuncture
                                     By Dr. Amber Willis

Sports Medicine & Acupuncture

Electroacupuncture triggers the local release of neurochemicals that aid in the healing process and facilitates a broader systemic release of endogenous opioids, your body's natural pain relievers. This therapy contributes to increased blood flow and reduced inflammation, both essential aspects of the healing process.

Moreover, electroacupuncture operates based on the gate control theory of pain. By inserting the needle along the nerve pathway between the site of pain and the brain, a non-painful stimulus is generated, effectively blocking the transmission of painful signals. Instead, the brain receives a non-painful signal, alleviating the sensation of pain.

Additionally, specific spinal segments can be targeted with electroacupuncture to modulate nerve pathways or induce a more generalized vascular response. This approach is particularly effective in treating nonmechanical chronic pain patients.


Dr. Willis incorporates electro-acupuncture in her practice to address muscle pain, restricted joint mobility, tendonitis, inflammation, and sensations of tingling or numbness in patients. Her approach involves specialized testing to identify inhibited muscles along with a comprehensive series of inquiries.

Electro-acupuncture treatment is designed to be non-painful. Patients often liken the sensation to that of a massage gun or a gentle buzzing feeling, depending on the specific treatment administered. Dr. Willis prioritizes patient comfort throughout these procedures and aims to ensure that individuals never experience discomfort. Her primary focus remains on providing treatments tailored to each patient's comfort level.​

Why do we use electro-acupuncture?
By needling the motor point and applying electrostimulation to the needle, we prompt the muscle to exceed its action potential threshold, inducing contractions. This process allows us to neuromodulate the tissue, altering the function of the nerve and muscle. Whether the muscle is excessively tight or weakened and elongated, this technique serves as a reset for the muscle.

Through manual muscle tests, we often identify pain as a result of inhibited muscles. Employing needling and electrostimulation at the motor point of the affected muscle facilitates the restoration of optimal function via neuromodulation. This approach is particularly effective in deactivating trigger points, releasing tension in the fascia, and reducing pain.
How does electro-acupuncture reduce pain?