FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

How does acupuncture feel?
Prior to their first treatment, many people do not believe that acupuncture can be painless. Different sensations such as soreness, numbness, distending, warmth and pressure may be felt, but the energetic sensation differs from pain. People often comment that the feeling is unfamiliar but pleasant and relaxing. We find that most of our patients are so relaxed during a session that they may even nap.

If you have a real fear of needles, discuss it with your acupuncturist. An appropriate treatment strategy can always be agreed upon.

Is Acupuncture safe?
Yes, we use disposable single use sterile needles. In addition, our experienced practitioners know exactly where to insert the needles, avoiding sensitive areas.

How many sessions do I need?
As each person is unique, the number of treatments needed will vary. Among the determining factors are the type of condition being treated, whether the condition is chronic or acute, and the over health of the individual. Again, you should discuss your treatment program with your acupuncturist.

How often should I receive acupuncture treatment?
The number and frequency of acupuncture treatments depend entirely on the physical condition of each individual. A treatment plan will be created during the first initial visit to our clinic.

Should I stop other medications?
No. You should continue to follow your current physician's instructions. Please remember that acupuncture is used to complement and supplement your physician's treatments not to replace them. You should discuss this issue with your physician and acupuncturist.

What are the lamps and electronic gadgets I see during acupuncture treatment?
An infrared lamp as well as low-voltage direct current stimulation via the acupuncture needle may be used to maintain stimulation of the acupoints. These are now well-accepted techniques in bolstering the effectiveness of traditional acupuncture.

Can acupuncture be effective when other treatments have failed?
Yes. Each system of medicine has its own areas of greatest effectiveness. Acupuncture excels in those areas in which conventional medicine comes up short. Chronic disease, fertility issues, pain control, and stress related disorders are just a few of the areas in which acupuncture and Chinese medicine are effective.

What should I expect during my first visit?
During your first office visit, the practitioner may ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behavior. The practitioner will want to obtain a complete picture of your treatment needs and behaviors that may contribute to your condition. Inform the acupuncturist about all treatments or medications you are taking and all medical conditions you have. The practitioner will also use standard traditional Chinese medical diagnostic techniques such as taking the pulses and checking the tongue.

Depending on the problem being treated and your prior condition, you may experience a wide range of sensations the first time you have acupuncture. Since the treatment goal is the restoration and balance of the body's Qi, some patients will experience a burst of energy while others may feel relaxed or even tired. Many people experience a sense of calm and well being. Occasionally a patient may feel euphoric or lightheaded, especially after the first treatment.

Small, localized bruises from minor bleeding under the skin are infrequent, but do happen. These are no cause for alarm, and despite the cosmetic inconvenience, they actually provide a kind of bonus treatment. The re-absorption of the blood continues the stimulation of the acupuncture point even without the presence of the needle.