Common Questions About Acupuncture Treatment
Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most common and dependable medical therapies used in the world. It is by nature simple, safe and effective health care. Acupuncture practitioners use thin, sterile disposable needles inserted superficially into specific areas of the body in order to help the body’s ability to heal itself.
- World Health Organization has deemed appropriate for treatment with acupuncture.
- If you are suffering following list of conditions – that is, situations that should absolutely be treated with acupuncture without hesitation:Many gynecological issues (including PMS), athletic sprain/strain, acute back and/or neck strain, temporal mandibular disorder (TMJ), Bell’s palsy, headaches (including migraines), palpitations, early stages of cold/flu, asthma, tendinitis, arthritis, insomnia (poor sleep), Raynaud’s, anxiety, high levels of stress, addictions, irritable bowel syndrome, reflux, herpes zoster (shingles) and pre-/post-surgery for accelerated healing.
Acupuncture and moxibustion performed by professionally trained and licensed acupuncturists is very safe! Sterile, one-use acupuncture needles are categorized as class II medical devices, which are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.
The National Institute of Health recognizes the benefits of acupuncture within a conventional medicine paradigm, and research shows that there are few adverse side effects from acupuncture and moxibustion when performed by professionally trained and licensed acupuncturists. Slight bruising or bleeding, sensations of pressure or slight discomfort, experience of dizziness or light headedness are the most common reported adverse side effects of acupuncture, which can be minimized with rigorous training, patient education, and open communication between patient and practitioner.
The needles we use are sterile, single use disposable needles.
The initial treatment may last up to 1.5 hours, whereas follow up visits can range from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
No — most people tolerate acupuncture needles very well. They are extremely fine and are hardly felt at all.
A simple medical history form will be required, so we can better assess your current condition. We will view your condition with a holistic approach and expect you to answer detailed questions about your diet and sleep. Once you have been fully evaluated, we will create and explain your treatment plan and what to expect from the treatment. As your acupuncture session comes to an end, we will discuss helpful take home information pertaining to your condition that can assist your healing outside of the clinic. Your follow up appointment will be scheduled in-office.
This depends on what condition is being treated and will be discussed at your first appointment. Treatments can vary from one week to several months but as the condition improves, treatments will become less frequent.
It is good to have something to eat about an hour before your treatment. Please do not come to acupuncture on an empty stomach and/or extremely tire, but do avoid eating a heavy meal for at least one hour prior to treatment.
The affected body parts will have to be exposed but usually you do not need to fully undress.
Yes, but do let your practitioner know. Acupuncture may even be beneficial as it can treat many disorders of pregnancy. It can for instance be used to turn a breech presentation or to induce labour.
There is increasing evidence to support acupuncture increasing natural fertility and assisted fertility. Read our patient testimonials on fertility as well as our Research articles.
It is eminently suitable to treat all painful conditions (neck, back, headaches, limb pain etc), pregnancy disorders, viral and post viral illnesses, digestive complaints, anxiety and insomnia. The WHO has recommended acupuncture as a treatment for an extensive list of conditions.
Only very rarely. For instance, if there is arm swelling following lymph node removal for breast cancer, that arm should not be needled.
Your practitioner will ask for relevant details while taking your case history so please discuss any concerns with him/her.
Most practitioners will normally use between 6-8 needles.
It is a good idea to take it easy for a few hours after treatment to allow it to take full effect.
Yes but a period of rest is advisable for a few hours after treatment.
Yes, it is suitable for people of all ages and dispositions, including babies, pregnant women and the elderly.