FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture, and how does it work?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate various physiological responses.

According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, acupuncture works by balancing the flow of energy, or “qi,” through the body’s meridians or energy pathways. These meridians are thought to connect the body’s internal organs and provide a pathway for energy flow throughout the body.

Modern scientific research has shown that acupuncture may work by stimulating the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, such as endorphins and serotonin. It may also improve blood flow and nerve function in the areas where the needles are inserted.

Acupuncture has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, nausea, headaches, anxiety, and depression. However, more research is needed to fully understand how acupuncture works and to determine its effectiveness for different health conditions.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is generally considered to be a safe and low-risk form of therapy when performed by a trained and licensed practitioner. The needles used in acupuncture are very thin and sterile, and are inserted at specific points on the body to avoid injury to vital organs and blood vessels.

However, as with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks associated with acupuncture. These may include bruising, soreness, or minor bleeding at the needle insertion site, dizziness or lightheadedness during or after the treatment.

To minimize the risk of complications, it is important to choose a qualified and licensed acupuncturist who uses sterile needles and follows proper hygiene practices. Additionally, it is important to disclose any medical conditions, medications, or allergies to the acupuncturist before the treatment.

What can I expect?

During an acupuncture treatment, you can expect the following:

1. Consultation: Your acupuncturist will start by asking you about your medical history, symptoms, and any medications or supplements you are taking. This information will help them develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
2. Preparation: You will be asked to lie down on a treatment table, and your acupuncturist will cleanse the skin at the needle insertion points with alcohol or another disinfectant.
3. Insertion: Your acupuncturist will gently insert thin, sterile needles into specific points on your body. You may feel a slight pinch or prick as the needle is inserted, but acupuncture is generally not painful. Your acupuncturist may also manipulate the needles slightly to stimulate the flow of qi.
4. Relaxation: Once the needles are in place, you will be asked to lie still and relax for about 20-30 minutes. You may feel a mild tingling or sensation of warmth around the needle insertion points, which is normal.
5. Removal: After the treatment, your acupuncturist will remove the needles and dispose of them properly. You may feel a slight sense of dizziness or lightheadedness when you get up, so it is important to take your time and sit up slowly.
6. Follow-up: Your acupuncturist may recommend additional treatments or suggest lifestyle changes to support your health and wellness.

Overall, acupuncture is a relaxing and low-risk form of therapy that can be an effective treatment option for a variety of health conditions.

How many sessions of treatment?

The number of acupuncture sessions you will need depends on several factors, including your specific health condition, the severity of your symptoms, and how your body responds to the treatment.

For acute conditions, such as a recent injury or illness, you may only need one or two acupuncture sessions to see significant improvement. For chronic conditions, such as chronic pain or anxiety, you may need several weeks or months of regular acupuncture treatments to achieve optimal results.

In general, acupuncturists recommend an initial series of six to ten sessions, typically involving one or two treatments a week, with each session lasting about 30-60 minutes. After the initial series, your acupuncturist will assess your progress and determine whether additional treatments are needed.