FAQs
The sensation varies from person to person. A brief prick may occur with insertion and other normal sensations could include: a dull ache, tingling or numb sensation, warm or cold sensation. Most don’t feel anything at all. Acupuncture needles are only a few hairs thick. Many of them fit in a typical hypodermic needle.
An Acupuncturist usually palpates 3 pulse positions on each wrist which correspond to specific organ meridians. There are 27 qualities of the pulse that reflect overall health. The tongue is a map of the body with areas also corresponding to various organ systems. An Acupuncturist looks are the shape, size and coating of the tongue to assist in your diagnosis.
Younger children and babies are treated primarily with tuina or pediatric massage. If the child is old enough, needles may be used briefly and painlessly. Acupuncture is a safe, natural and effective and drug-free way to care for your child’s health.
Everyone responds at a different rate. Typically, one acupuncture treatment can last 3-5 days.
Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. More recently, modern scientific research and standards have been assessing the effectiveness of acupuncture. The National Institute of Health and World Health Organization agree that acupuncture is an effective treatment for over 100 conditions. If you don’t see your condition listed, call to find out if acupuncture could help you.
Yes. Only single-use disposable sterile needles are utilized. Clean Needle Technique training and maintenance is mandatory so there is a very minimal risk of infection.
As each person is unique, the number of treatments needed will vary depending on the condition, whether it is acute or chronic and overall health. Acute symptoms usually improve in a few treatments, chronic conditions may take weeks or months or even years depending on how long the symptoms have been present. In general, the body responds more quickly to frequent acupuncture treatment. Once your condition is stabilized, you won’t need to come in as frequently.
Acupuncture is not a quick fix. Healing takes time and dedication. Sometimes, people feel better right away. Normally, you may need treatment for weeks, months or years to achieve the results you want.
Acupuncture is complementary to many other healthcare modalities. It is also successful at reducing side effects of western medications.
The depth depends on the size of the individual and the area being needled. Typically, needles are inserted 1-2cm, less on hands and feet and deeper in areas of thicker muscle like the thigh or buttocks.
This concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”) is at the core of TCM. It is described as the life energy that circulates throughout the body. It is responsible for our movement and in protecting us from illness, pain and disease. A person’s health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of qi. Thus, physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, poor diet, accidents or excessive activity are some of the ways that influence this circulation of qi.
Acupuncture is covered by most third party insurance companies. Please check your policy.