5NP Acupuncture

What Is Auricular Acupuncture (AKA 5NP or Ear Acupuncture)?

In the early 1970s a Chinese doctor, Dr H. L. Wen, a neurosurgeon working in Kwong Wah Hospital in Hong Kong was the first to report successful treatment of withdrawal symptoms and cravings of addiction with acupuncture.  Dr Wen observed that opiate users who had undergone surgery and received acupuncture for post-operative pain relief experienced fewer withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

Soon after in America, community activists and physicians in the Bronx worked to develop an ear acupuncture protocol called “Acudetox” to help provide relief for community members suffering from heroin withdrawal. This procedure became known as the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) Protocol. Because the technique involved inserting five acupuncture needles in each ear, it also became known as the “5 Needle Protocol” or “5NP.”

After 9/11, it was determined that 5NP was effective in providing emotional and physical relief for first responders and others suffering from trauma. 

This simple, safe, and effective treatment has been used to address issues related to addiction, traumatic experiences or losses, and toxic stress. It has been shown to increase calmness, energy, concentration, and sleep, while reducing anxiety, agitation, and cravings for alcohol and drugs, including nicotine.

This is non-verbal, non-diagnostic, no barriers group therapy that is holistic, supportive and patient-centered. The needles are placed on 5 points on the ear only. This can be done in group or individual sessions. The recipients sit quietly listening to calming music with the needles in for 30-45 minutes, allowing the treatment to take effect.

Fees: $30 for group sessions, $60 individual. Sliding scale fee available for group sessions

Provider: Suzanne Perkins LCSW, AZ Auricular Acupuncture Certificate CAU-000301

Free Auricular Acupuncture Clinic

Sundays from 2:00pm-4:00pm

The YWCA House of Neighborly Service

243 W. 33rd St.

Building 1

This free clinic is supported by auricular acupuncture trainers, practitioners and students as a community service for anyone who is interested or in need.

Additional Information on Auricular Acupuncture

National Acupuncture Detoxification Association

https://acudetox.com/protocol/

Ear Acupuncture: A Tool For Recovery

https://medicine.yale.edu/psychiatry/news-article/ear-acupuncture-a-tool-for-recovery/

“Takeover” Documentary of the Historic 1970 Young Lords Occupation of Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmqzKbAWbl0

Penn North Acupuncture 

https://vimeo.com/40290812