The Acupuncturist's Toolbox - Paul Heijer on Ear Acupuncture

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Every acupuncturist develops their own style over the years, with specific preferences and methods. In this series of interviews, we speak with NVA acupuncturists about how they shape their treatments. 

Which acupuncture style do you use most in your practice and why does this particular style appeal to you?
'The term 'style' can be interpreted in different ways, and I do just that.
To start with, I mainly work with ear acupuncture. This is really different from, for example, body or skull acupuncture. Another characteristic of my style is that I almost always use ear seeds: small needles that remain in the ear for a while to achieve a long-lasting effect. Furthermore, I work with a special point finder, in my opinion the ultimate tool in my practice. With this, I can precisely locate the right point on the ear.

What also belongs to my style is that I prefer to take a Western approach. This helps to make my explanation understandable for clients. For example, I often make a connection with neurological principles. Many people find that comforting because it sounds familiar and logical to them.

In addition, I am extremely precise. I really zoom in on the exact spot where a needle should go. The term 'precision work' is actually still too coarse. It often involves fractions of millimeters. I am only satisfied when I see or feel a reflex reaction in the client. This sometimes requires some patience, from me, but also from the client.

Why do I choose this style? Because in this way, I can achieve a powerful and long-lasting energetic effect in a short time, and because I see that it works: the results are often surprisingly positive.'

What does a treatment according to this style look like in practice? Can you give an example?
'Certainly. Let me give you an example: A young man was referred to me by his mother. He had a poorly healing fracture in his lower leg, and his mother was worried. He himself was somewhat skeptical. He couldn't imagine that a needle in his ear would do anything for his leg. But because it was a serious problem, he wanted to give it a try.

He hobbled in, but the contact was immediately pleasant. I explained to him that the nervous system of his leg and the corresponding brain area were out of balance, hindering recovery. I knew where to expect reflex points on the ear that correspond to this. In this case, I didn't find pulse or tongue diagnosis necessary.

When he indicated that he somewhat understood, I asked him to lie down on the treatment table. Using my point finder, I precisely located the correct reflex point for the lower leg. Then I inserted a retention needle. After a few attempts, he suddenly reacted strongly: verbally and physically. His leg shot up while he exclaimed a profanity.

When he calmed down, I asked him to take a few steps. To his surprise, he could walk without pain. I mentioned that I expected the next X-ray to be favorable. He came back one more time, and during that second treatment, he was clearly convinced of the effect.'

When do you notice that your style really makes a difference for a client?
'Especially when someone says: 'In previous treatments, with a different approach, I noticed less results.' Then I know that my way of working adds something.

But the opposite also happens. Sometimes someone prefers body acupuncture over ear acupuncture and I understand that, because the stay needles in the ear can be quite sensitive. So, it remains custom work.'

Do you also combine this style with other techniques or treatment methods?
‘Certainly, although auricular acupuncture is always my foundation. Sometimes I add something if I think it can enhance the effect.

For example, in cases such as plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or inducing labor. In such situations, I sometimes use the Tan method, which is specifically aimed at relieving pain. But that's really only a small part of what I do, maybe one percent.’

What have you learned over the years about working with this style? Has your way of treating changed?
‘Certainly. I have learned a lot and despite recently receiving my state pension, I continue to develop myself. Every discovery brings something new. But perhaps the most important thing I have learned is this: don't believe everything blindly. Not everything you read or hear is true for everyone. Ultimately, the result of your treatment is your best teacher.’