Frequently Asked Questions
Is Acupuncture treatment painful?
Acupuncture treatments are not painful. Acupuncture is performed with hair-thin needles that do not resemble the pain felt from a hypodermic needle. Patients often fall asleep and are in deep relaxation on the table.
I am scared of needles, how big are Acupuncture needles?
There are several types of acupuncture needles. Today, the most commonly used needle is the metal filiform (thread-like) needle that is made from stainless steel.
Acupuncture needles come in different gauges (diameter) and lengths to be used on the different areas of the body where they are to be inserted. The needles used nowadays are mostly very fine — they vary from 0.12 mm to 0.35 mm in diameter.
How many Treatments will I need?
The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more than one treatment is necessary. For acute conditions you can expect to have 10 to 15 treatments, but you will usually begin to feel relief after just the first few. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond, depending on the type, severity, and duration of the condition. Preventative treatments and treatments for general well-being may also be scheduled on an as-needed basis.
Are acupuncture needles safe?
The Acupuncture needles used are pre-sterilized, single use, disposable types. They are manufactured and packed under sterile conditions into foil-backed blister packs with plastic guide tubes.
The most commonly used needles are made of stainless steel and range in length from 8 mm to 7 cm. They are usually inserted 2.3 mm to 2.5 cm into the body.
How long are the acupuncture needles left in for?
Acupuncture needles can be left in for any length of time between a few seconds and half an hour or so. The acupuncturist may twist or lightly flick the needles during this time. Some specialized very small, short needles can be left in for a few days based on the treatment regimen decided by your acupuncturist
Is Acupuncture a Safe treatment?
In the hands of a licensed practitioner acupuncture is a very safe, pain-free, effective, treatment for many acute and chronic conditions that has been used for thousands of years.
Are there any side effects?
One of the great advantages of acupuncture is that it is very safe. Other than an occasional bruise, there are no side effects.
Where do the acupuncture needles go?
Needles are placed at specific acupuncture points on the body. Depending on the specific condition the needles commonly are placed at or below the elbows, and at or below the knees. Other common areas are on the back, abdomen and ears.
How can I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?
The best way to prepare is to eat a snack or a light meal before treatment so your body has enough energy to work with. If possible, it is best to wear loose clothing so that your arms and legs are accessible for treatment. You should be aware that the acupuncturist may need to access points on your torso, arms and legs. It also helps to be in a calm state. Try to arrive 5 or 10 minutes before your appointment to give yourself a chance to relax. Try to avoid the following:
- Avoid Eating a big meal within one hour of your appointment
- Avoid Fasting for more than six hours before your appointment
- Avoid Alcohol 24 hours before treatment or just following a treatment
- Avoid tobacco, food or drinks that color your tongue (such as coffee) at least one hour immediately prior to treatment or just following a treatment
- Avoid Vigorous exercise within the hour before treatment
We also recommend that you avoid wearing any metallic jewelry, watches, or earrings. Makeup and nail polish should be minimized or eliminated. Please also avoid the use of perfumes, colognes or strongly scented cosmetics.
After treatment we recommend you drink a glass of water to help stabilize your energy.
What are the benefits of acupuncture?
One benefit to acupuncture is that it is a medicine-free way to optimize health. With medicines, people often develop a tolerance, or the need for an increased dosage to achieve the same required effect. However, this does not happen with acupuncture. In addition, acupuncture allows the doctor to immediately examine a person’s response to the treatment and adjust it if necessary.