Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most patients report there is little or no pain. You may feel a “poke” when the needles are initially inserted because the skin contains numerous free nerve endings. After the needles are inserted, you may feel nothing, or a slightly heavy, distended feeling.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture works differently from pharmaceutical drugs and surgical operations. It does not alter the natural composition of the body by adding extra substances into it nor does it do so by removing parts of the body.
What acupuncture does is to help the body to return to its natural balance by itself. This goal is achieved by interacting with the nervous system to trigger various neurological feedback. Therefore, to regulate hormones and neurotransmitters in the body.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes, acupuncture is safe if it is performed by licensed acupuncturists aka L.Ac. Licensed acupuncturists are required to receive 3-4 years of schooling in graduate schools (the time difference depends on if there are summer breaks), internship in a variety of clinical settings, including hospital internship. This is the major difference between Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture and dry-needling (a type of needling performed by other types of healthcare providers). Please check the providers’ credential before receiving acupuncture, make sure the providers are licensed acupuncturists.
What Type of Needles Are Used?
Acupuncture needles are very fine, thin, and are made out of stainless steel. All needles are sterile, disposable and single-use.
What Should I Do During the Course of Treatments?
Making positive changes in lifestyle.
Most conditions acupuncture treats are chronic in nature. One of the major factors that contribute to chronic conditions is a lifestyle, such as a diet or sleeping habits. An acupuncturist can help to improve a patient’s health, but if an unhealthy lifestyle continues, the positive effect from acupuncture will be compromised. We work with patients like a team to achieve the goal.
How Long Does It Last?
Like any types of treatments, it varies from person to person
What Should I Wear?
Loose and comfortable clothes are recommended.
What Are the Side Effects?
Side effects are minimal. It may include slight bleeding, bruising. Some patients report slight dizziness.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Usually, a series of treatments is necessary to resolve a condition. Each case and condition are treated individually, and every person responds to treatment differently. Treatment course depends on several different factors that can be discussed during your initial consultation and treatment.
What Should I Expect After the First Treatment?
It varies from person to person. Most patients report positive changes, such as pain being eased either on duration or intensity or both. Sometimes it will take a series of treatments for changes to take place.
