How to Train for Ear Stapling

Ear stapling is a method of alternative reflexology that uses small staples placed in the ear to promote natural healing. Training for ear stapling involves certification through an Internet course or in-person seminar. There are no medical guidelines for ear stapling, as it is considered a form of body modification similar to piercing. Certification is not required to practice the art of ear stapling. Internet courses range in price from $800 to $1,500 or more. In person, seminars can cost between $700 and $5,000. All prices are as of September, 2010.

Things You'll Need

• Ear stapling gun

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Instructions

• 1

  Find a certification program online. Internet certification programs are available through private businesses online. One such program is Acu-Staple started by Robin Gibson, R.N. The Acu-Staple program includes a history of ear stapling, training in ear reflex points and paper documents such as waivers and aftercare instructions for clients. Online certification programs do not allow for physical training and practice.

• 2

  Choose an in-person seminar or class. American Alternative Healthcare in Atlanta, Ga. offers a training course in ear stapling. The course retails for $1,900 without supplies and $2,250 with supplies. The student is expected to attend 16 hours of courses before certification is earned. The ear stapling courses are included with the Auricular Therapy certification.

• 3

  Study the history and health benefits of ear stapling. This is an important part of ear stapling training. Health benefit training will include learning reflex points on the ear used for a variety of health conditions or treatments. Reflex points located in the ear have been used in alternative medicine for centuries. When pierced, these reflex points are thought to produce a positive benefit such as reduction in appetite.

• 4

  Practice hands-on. In-person classes often involve practicing ear stapling on fellow students and allowing fellow students to practice on you. Having physical training allows the student to learn proper methods of ear stapling and aftercare instructions.

• 5

  Learn universal precautions. A list of universal precautions is published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to prevent transmission of HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis B and other diseases of the blood. Ear stapling involves breaking the skin with a specialized staple gun that can result in bleeding. Universal precautions include using latex gloves, washing hands before and after ear stapling and treating every client's blood as if it were infected with a blood-borne pathogen.

• 6

  Research local and state health department regulations. In some states, like Nevada, body modification practice involves communication between the state health department and the body modification business. Communication typically includes recording each client's name, birth date and signature on a specialized form. A photo ID is commonly included with the form when sent to the state health department.