How does El Rio use acupuncture?
El Rio offers auricular acupuncture to all clients. Acupuncture is used to help rid the body of toxic chemicals, including illicit drugs, and to reduce the craving associated with alcohol and drug abuse and addiction. Acupuncture treatment is provided daily and on demand by well-trained staff under the supervision of a licensed acupuncturist. El Rio was the first program to fully integrate acupuncture services into a full-service program, and continues to offer the largest, most comprehensive non-residential and drug-free detoxification, sobriety maintenance, and immune-enhancement services outside the City hospital system. But acupuncture is not a cure for addiction, is it? Acupuncture reduces the craving and stress associated with chaotic drug use, and is useful in opening the door to our clients’ recovery. El Rio also addresses the practical realities of the road to wellness. Without meaningful jobs (requiring a range of vocational skills, including literacy) the world of drugs, inc
