Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very thin and smooth, so when they are inserted you feel only a slight sensation or nothing at all. Once the needles are in place, you may feel a sensation of heaviness, warmth or tingling at and around the site of the needle. Most patients find the treatments very relaxing and many fall asleep during the treatment.
Is acupuncture safe?
When performed by a qualified, Licensed Acupuncturist, acupuncture and related techniques have proven to be extremely safe. Needles are pre-sterilized and disposable to eliminate the risk of disease transmission, and certification in Clean Needle Technique protocols ensure that needles are kept sterile.
What can I expect during my treatment?
First, your condition will be evaluated by asking you questions about your current and past medical history. Questions will be asked about your overal health, and are detailed and specific in order to make a diagnostic assesment based on your individual constitution. Diagnosis also includes a visual inspection of the tongue and palpating the quality of the pulse. The body will also be paplated for tender spots. Once a diagnosis is made, appropriate acupuncture points will be selected. The needles will be gently inserted and maniuplated and retained for about 20 minutes. Points are located all over the body, but usually only 4-20 points may be used based on the treatment. Also you may be given a treatment on one side of the body first and then on the other.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed will depend on the condition, and how long you have had it. The effects of acupuncture are cumulative so each session will reinforce the effect. Treatments can be as frequent as 1-3 times a week, and it is recomended to have at least 2 treatments a week in the first few weeks, while once a month is recommended for general maintence and 'tune-up'.