Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture?

It is an ancient Chinese medicine developed over several thousands of years, through careful and diligent study of the body; mind; emotions; spirit; and the natural world around us. Through applying gentle and precise stimulation to specific sites on their body, homeostasis, balance and a healing response are supported. Acupuncture needles are conductors, and when placed in points that have increased conductivity, can effectively "tune" the body to maximize health and wellness.

How does acupuncture work?

"Acupuncture works by helping the body to heal itself. Our bodies are designed to be self-healing. When you get a scratch on your arm, you don't have to think about healing it. Your body automatically responds to the injury by increasing blood clotting factors to stop any bleeding, making and sending white blood cells to the area to fight any infection, and forming a scab. The acupuncture needle safely stimulates this same healing response, directing the body's natural anti-inflammatories and pain killers to the area of need.

What should I expect in the first treatment?

The initial evaluation and treatment may take up to 1 1/2 hours. Subsequent follow up appointments usually take about 30 mins - 45 mins depending on the condition.   A common treatment plan for a single complaint would typically involve one or two treatments a week. The number of treatments will depend on the condition being treated and its severity. In general, it's common to receive six to eight treatments.  During the procedureAcupuncture points are situated in all areas of the body. Sometimes the appropriate points are far removed from the area of your pain. Your acupuncture practitioner will tell you the general site of the planned treatment and whether you need to remove any clothing. Its best to wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing.  You will lay on a padded table for the treatment and a sheet will be provided.

How many treatments will I need?

Each session may last 30 minutes to an hour (in some cases), with the needles being retained for 15 - 20 minutes. Depending on the condition being treated, a Treatment Plan may vary, starting with 6 sessions and in some cases 8-12 sessions or more if it is a chronic condition or for fertility support. Sometimes the patient may have to return for maintenance therapies down the road to ensure long-term benefit. Because the the effects of the treatment are cumulative, timing is important and often times maybe more frequent at the start of treatment so that the healing effects can build upon each other.

What will I feel during the treatment?

Acupuncture needles are inserted to various depths at strategic points on your body. The needles are very thin, so insertion usually causes little discomfort. People often don't feel them inserted at all.  You may feel a dull ache or tingling sensation when a needle reaches the correct depth.  Your practitioner may gently move or twirl the needles after placement or apply heat or mild electrical pulses to the needles.  In most cases, the needles remain in place for 15 to 20 minutes while you lie still and relax. There is usually no discomfort when the needles are removed.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncturists use modern equipment and training that can make acupuncture virtually painless.  All needles are single-use, disposable, and sterile.

What conditions does acupuncture treat?

The World Health Organization (WHO) published an official report listing 31 symptoms, conditions and diseases that have been shown in controlled trials to be treated effectively by Acupuncture. Following is the list of conditions shown through controlled trials to be treated effectively by Acupuncture:

Low back pain    

Neck pain    

Sciatica    

Tennis elbow    

Knee pain              

Peri-arthritis of the shoulder    

SprainsFacial pain    

TMJ    

Headache    

Dental pain    

Acute and chronic gastritis    

Rheumatoid arthritis          

Induction of labor

Breech birth presentation    

Morning sickness          

Nausea and vomiting    

Postoperative pain    

Stroke    

Essential hypertension  

Primary hypotension    

Renal colic    

Leucopenia    

Radiation/chemo reactions

Allergic rhinitis    

Hay fever    

Biliary colic    

Depression and much more!

See the full list on the WHO website.