Acupuncture
It does not hurt because the needles are only 3 hairs thick and are solid. You may feel only a slight electric sensation when the needles are in place.
- How many treatments will I need?
That depends on the condition being treated. Long-standing conditions generally take longer to heal than more recent conditions. For chronic pain and musculoskeletal problems we may start by treating you once or twice a week for 3 to 4 weeks and adjust the frequency of treatment as improvement occurs.
- How long are the treatments?
Acupuncture treatments are usually one hour but in some cases half-hour treatments may be an option.
- What can I expect at the initial visit?
The initial visit usually lasts an hour to an hour and a half. The acupuncturist will review your medical history and any lab or MRI data. Then the acupuncturist will do an Acupuncture Diagnosis, which includes taking your pulse, looking at your tongue, and abdominal palpation. Range of motion testing and pain/functional scales are given when appropriate.
Yes. All needles are sterile, disposable, used only once and then discarded in special containers.
- Does acupuncture have side effects?
You will be pleasantly surprised to experience the
positive side effects of acupuncture, which include relaxation and an overall feeling of well being due to the release of endorphins and other brain chemicals. Negative side effects are extremely rare.
- Does acupuncture work on just the symptoms?
Naturally, we will start by treating your pain and other symptoms. The approach of acupuncture is to balance energy in the whole body, in order to support the body's natural healing ability. This is called a "root treatment" and works on many levels, including the physical, mental and emotional levels.
