Auricular Therapy

Acupuncture of the auricle (the outer portion of the ear) or electrical stimulation of the auricular acupoint that "corresponds" to the anatomical site of the body. It is a form of alternative medicine based on the idea that the ear is a microsystem with the entire body. Ailments of the entire body are assumed to be treatable by stimulation of the surface of the ear exclusively.

Auricular acupuncture was first recognized in the early 1970s as treatment for patients addicted to cocaine and opium in Hong Kong. Since then, auricular acupuncture has been used in addiction detoxification protocols worldwide.

Currently, acupuncturists use the auricular "reflexing" points not only to treat a variety of illnesses and addictions, but also to diagnose certain conditions and disorders.

Based on our clinical experience, auricular therapy is mostly effective for treatment of pain, obesity, insomnia, anxiety, depression, stress, neurological problems, as well as addictions to drugs, cigarettes and alcohol. In our practice we often use auricular therapy in conjunction with acupuncture, guided imagery and herbal remedies.