AcuDetox
We provide AcuDetox (ear acupuncture) at our office in Blacksburg
AcuDetox (Auricular Detoxification) is a gentle yet powerful form of ear acupuncture that brings relief to those struggling with stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. This evidence-based treatment activates your body's natural healing response through the precise placement of tiny needles at five key points in each ear, helping to restore balance to your nervous system and create a deep sense of calm.
AcuDetox can support individuals experiencing:
- Stress, anxiety, and overwhelm: The specific ear points used in AcuDetox help activate your parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress hormones and promoting a state of relaxation.
- Sleep difficulties and restlessness:
Many clients report improved sleep quality and an easier time falling asleep after regular AcuDetox sessions.
- Trauma and PTSD symptoms:
The treatment helps regulate the nervous system and reduce hypervigilance, making it easier to process and heal from trauma.
- Recovery and addiction: Originally developed for addiction treatment, AcuDetox helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while supporting emotional stability.
- Depression and mood challenges: By promoting the release of natural feel-good chemicals in the brain, AcuDetox can help lift mood and increase emotional resilience.
How AcuDetox works
AcuDetox works by stimulating five specific points in each ear that correspond to key body systems involved in stress response and emotional regulation. These points - called Sympathetic, Shen Men, Kidney, Liver, and Lung - were carefully chosen based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles and modern research. When stimulated with tiny, sterile needles, these points send signals to your brain that activate your body's natural healing response, reduce stress hormones, and promote the release of endorphins.
The treatment is administered in-person by our certified practitioners in a quiet, calming environment. While some clients notice benefits after a single session, regular treatments allow for cumulative effects and longer-lasting results. AcuDetox can be used as a standalone treatment or integrated with other therapeutic approaches like counseling or trauma work.
What to expect
Before Your First Session
- Complete our online intake forms, including medical history
- Avoid caffeine or stimulants for 2 hours before your session
- Eat a light meal 1-2 hours before treatment
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your ears
During Your Session
- Sessions last 30-45 minutes
- You'll be seated comfortably in a quiet room, often with other clients receiving treatment
- Your practitioner will clean your ears and insert 5 tiny needles in specific points on each ear
- You'll sit quietly and rest while the needles do their work
- Many people feel deeply relaxed or even fall asleep during treatment
After Your Session
- Most people feel calm and relaxed, sometimes even slightly tired
- You may notice improved sleep that night and reduced anxiety for several days
- Drink plenty of water and try to take things easy for the rest of the day
- Regular weekly sessions for 6-8 weeks are recommended initially, then frequency can be adjusted based on your needs and response
Ready to try AcuDetox?
Insurance does not cover AcuDetox sessions. Contact boltcounseling@thecalmed.com for pricing and to schedule a session.