Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is one of the oldest healing systems known to mankind. Developed and refined over the last 4,000 years, it employs the elements of nature to explain how all bodily functions interrelate. Vital energy or “Qi” (pronounced “chee”) flows continuously through the body along channels.
Disease and pain are seen as blockages in this flow of vital energy and can be corrected with acupuncture. Acupuncture is the insertion of hair-fine needles into the body at specific points known to restore the flow of Qi. These points have been shown effective in the treatment of wide variety of common health problems.
How Long Is Each Visit?
Acupuncture Sessions:
The first visit is typically 75 to 90 minutes for acupuncture sessions. We do a complete health history and examination as well as an assessment of your health problem. Regular visits last 30 to 60 minutes.
How Does the Acupuncturist Make a Traditional Chinese Medical Diagnosis?
Your practitioner will thoroughly discuss your health problem with you and ask you questions specific to your problem and about your overall health. Acupuncture is a holistic medical practice; therefore, additional information about your sleep, energy, digestion, mental state is very important in making an accurate Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) diagnosis. Your disease is not viewed as separate from you, rather as part of a whole complex system that may be out of balance.
How Many Needles are Used?
After the initial interview, you will be asked to lie down. The acupuncturist will pick approximately 6 to 14 acupuncture points. These points will be cleaned with alcohol before the acupuncturist inserts the hair-fine, disposable sterile needles.
Will the Needles Hurt?
The needles are as fine as a strand of hair. Most patients feel little or no discomfort during the insertion. Once the needle is in, there is no uncomfortable sensation at the needle site. Most people find the treatment very relaxing and many meditate or sleep.
How Long Will the Needles Stay In?
For adults, the needles will be left in for 20 to 35 minutes. You will have a call bell in case you need immediate assistance. If you are cold, a heat lamp and blanket will be provided for you. Every effort is made to make you are as comfortable as possible during the treatment.
For children, the needles will stay in anywhere from 1 second to 15 minutes depending on the age of the child. On average, children 8 years and older will retain the needles for 5 to 10 minutes. For babies and toddlers, the needles will be inserted and then immediately removed.
Are There Any Special Instructions to Follow After the Treatment?
Plan to take it easy after your treatment. Most patients report they feel energized and a sense of well being afterward. Many also report that they sleep great the same night as their treatment. Sometimes after receiving a treatment, you may feel a little lightheaded. If this is the case, please sit down in the waiting room. In a few minutes, you’ll feel relaxed and clear-headed.