Laser therapy (also referred to as laser acupuncture) is the pairing of ancient acupuncture with modern laser technology. Similar areas will be treated with both laser and needle methods for quitting smoking.
What’s the difference between laser acupuncture (at Alpha Lifestyle Center) and traditional acupuncture (needles)? Needles are an effective way to treat many conditions, including nicotine addiction. However, important distinctions should be made when comparing the two for quitting smoking.
Not all individuals experience pain with needles, but some do. Not all individuals are afraid of needles, but some are. Advantage: laser therapy, because it is completely painless. Our customers only feel the gentle pressure of the probe against their skin.
Additionally, the size of the laser probe is bigger than the tip of a needle. A larger surface makes it easier to hit a target. The small tip of a needle requires more accuracy. This is not a concern for an experienced acupuncturist using needles. But you will want to do your homework.
Why is our program only a single visit compared to multiple visits with an acupuncturist? Physics! Light energy travels. The relaxing effects of light energy last longer. These effects are believed to outlast the physical withdrawal period. This is why only one visit is usually required to quit smoking.
To be fair, I DO believe that needle acupuncture produces an intense (and more immediate)relaxation effect. But, the effect is shorter-acting and therefore requires multiple visits to quit smoking. Laser therapy typically requires just a single visit. So even if a long commute is necessary, Alpha may still be more convenient.
Finally, laser therapy is just ONE component of our Smoking Cessation program. Traditional needle acupuncture relaxes the body to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Our program goes far beyond that.
Alpha Lifestyle Center of Birmingham addresses physical AND psychological withdrawal. We offer a comprehensive approach to nicotine addiction. We also have Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist on staff. The appointment is split equally among education, laser treatment and behavior modification. Our customers leave their appointment equipped with the tools to support immediate and long-term success.
Acupuncturists specialize in acupuncture. Alpha Lifestyle Center of Birmingham specializes in nicotine addiction. This is probably the greatest distinction between the two.
I have had conventional acupuncture, but it never felt quite “right” to me, if you know what I mean. It didn’t hurt exactly, but it wasn’t comfortable, and I couldn’t relax during the sessions. I find the laser to be much less noticeable during the treatments. I am curious to know if the laser has broader applications beyond nicotine addiction as I have a friend who receives acupuncture for headaches, and I wish she could have laser treatments instead.
Of course with any new program, there’s always going to be some people that it just will not work for. But I am thrilled to be smoke free! And the patience of the Alpha Laser staff, phenomenal! The support is great. I wish I would of done this years ago, but it’s never too late to make a positive change for your life. 🙂
http://www.everydayhealth.com/stop-smoking-pictures/the-best-and-worst-ways-to-quit-smoking.aspx#09