Frequently Asked Questions
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of extremely thin, sterilized, single use, stainless steel needles into specific points on the body where there are special concentrations of qi (energy) and blood. These points are like switches of circuit breakers for regulating and balancing the flow of qi and blood in the body.
What Does the First Treatment Consist of?
If you have acupuncture treatment, your first visit will last about 90 minutes.
Upon arrival, you can expect to fill out some paperwork- a medical history form including medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking, a consent to treatment form is required. Together, we will go through your medical history form and complete a Chinese Medical Intake to determine the root of your condition.
Subsequent visits will be about 30-60 minutes. Once the needles are inserted, you will lay comfortably for 15-45 minutes. For any other treatment, please discuss it during your consultation with our practitioners.
What can I expect to feel from my first acupuncture Treatment?
Everybody experiences the effects of acupuncture a little differently. Depending on the type of problem being treated, some people may start to notice the benefits almost immediately, others may feel a difference a few hours after treatment, and some may need a few treatments before they notice an improvement. Some people become very relaxed while others may feel energized.
Is acupuncture painful?
It is said that acupuncture is bu tong, painless. However, most patients will feel slight sensations of soreness, heaviness electrical tingling, or distension. Any discomfort is minimal and lasts only a few seconds.
You need to be aware that:
- Drowsiness occurs after treatment for very short time in a small number of patients
- Minor bleeding or bruising occurs after acupuncture in about 3% of treatments
- Existing symptoms can get worse after treatment (less than 3% of patients), but this is usually a good sign;
- Fainting occasionally occur in certain patients, particularly during the first treatment
How many treatments do you need?
That depends on the duration, severity, and nature of your complaint. You may need only a single treatment for an acute condition. A series of five to fifteen treatments may resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time.
What should you do before receiving acupuncture treatment?
Wear loose fitting clothing. Come to your appointment when you are not excessively fatigued, hungry, full, or emotionally upset. Please schedule enough time so that you feel relaxed and unhurried.
What should you do after treatment?
It is most beneficial to be able to relax and rest after treatment. Please avoid excessive physical activity, stressful situations, alcohol, and caffeine for a few hours after treatment.
In Chinese medicine, we also use the tongue and pulse as diagnostic tools. A treatment plan is then made based upon your history, intake, tongue, and pulse and also a discussion with you afterwards for options.
How Long Does an Appointment Last?
Your initial appointment will last about 90 minutes and subsequent treatments, about 45 minutes. Please schedule enough time so that you feel relaxed and unhurried.