FAQ

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is carried out by inserting hair-fine needles into specific points on the body.  Every person’s experience and sensation felt is unique.  However, some of the common sensations reported are: dullness, heaviness, tightness, soreness or electrical-like impulses traveling through the body.  After the treatment is over, it is normal to continue experiencing the needling sensation.  These sensations are related to the healing process.  

What conditions can acupuncture treat?

The National Institute of Health (NIH) along with the World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized acupuncture as a viable treatment option for many ailments. is clear evidence that needle acupuncture is efficacious for adult postoperative and chemotherapy nausea and vomiting and probably for the nausea of pregnancy.  Some of the most common conditions treated are:

Musculoskeletal Disorders: Frozen shoulder, low back pain, neck pain, sciatica, arthritis, muscle injury/tightness, carpal tunnel

Neurologic Disorders: Headaches, migraines 

Ear, Nose and Throat: Seasonal allergies, ringing in ears, sore throat, post-nasal drip  

Respiratory: Asthma, common cold, chest congestion, sinusitis, shortness of breath, allergies  

Gastrointestinal: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, weight control 

Gynecological/Urological: Painful menstruation, PMS, amenorrhea, cysts, menopause, prostatitis, infertility

  

Dermatological: Acne,eczema, psoriasis, wrinkles, scars

Psychological: Stress, sleep disturbance, depression, anxiety, irritability

Cardiac: Palpitations,hypertension, cholesterol

What can I expect on my first visit?

The first visit is the opportunity for the provider to gather information about your condition. This session usually lasts approximately an hour to 1hr and 15 minutes.  After a thorough assessment and discussion of the patient’s health concerns, an acupuncture prescription is prepared.  The patient will then lie down on a table with only the areas to be treated exposed.  Then the areas to be treated are wiped with alcohol and the hair-fine, disposable, needles are inserted into the skin.  The treatment usually lasts for 20-30 minutes, one to three times per week, depending on the condition.  Results will vary from person to person. 

How many treatments doI have to have before I see results?

No two patients are alike and therefore no two treatments are the same.  Treatments are designed according to each individual’s condition.  The number of treatments are determined by how acute or chronic your condition.  Some patients may begin noticing results after 2 sessions.  In general, however, it may take 5-15 continued and consistent treatments to achieve desired results.

How is acupuncture better than Western medicine?

One system is not better than the other.  They each have unique approaches to treating illness.  Acupuncture focuses on the whole person rather than on isolated symptoms or a single issue without taking account its effects on the rest of the body.  Acupuncture on its own is a great preventative medicine and supplement to improve your overall health.  It is also remarkable as an adjunct or complementary practice with Western medicine. Western medicine has been instrumental in the care of trauma and the treatment of acute illness.  

It has been studied that acupuncture improves the body’s own natural immune response and increases chemical reactions that support self healing.  Research suggests that acupuncture works by regulating the body's nervous system and by promoting the release of pain-killing chemicals called endorphins.  Acupuncture may affect the chemistry in the brain and influence the chemicals and hormones associated with immune process, blood pressure regulation, blood flow and body temperature.

Will acupuncture interfere with my current Western medications?

No. Acupuncture and related modalities do not interfere with your medications.  As your condition improves, you may re-discuss your treatment plan with your Western physician.  You should not discontinue your prescription medications or other treatments until you and your Western physician have thoroughly explored your best options.

What if I’m afraid of needles?

There are other ‘needleless’ practices available that may help with your condition.  Please call to speak with a provider and discuss your options.

 

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