Does acupuncture hurt?
For most people, the procedure is painless. Sometimes people feel a little prick similar to a mosquito bite when the needle is first inserted. Occasionally, depending on the condition, there is a dull ache or a warming type sensation around the point. Many people fall asleep during acupuncture treatments.
Very few side effects have been reported with acupuncture treatments using disposable needles. If needles are inserted properly, there is no risk to underlying nerves or organs. As with any type of treatment, you should always inform your practitioner of all medications you are taking as well as any underlying health conditions you may have or have previously experienced. You should also inform your practitioner if you are or could possibly be pregnant. Proper information will help in the selection of the type of treatment that is right for you.
What sort of training is involved to be an acupuncturist?
Training is extensive and most practitioners have at least 4 years undergraduate study (preferably in a health-related field) and 3 years of training at an accredited acupuncture college. During the course of study, acupuncture and herbal medicine are emphasized, along with study of anatomy, diagnosis, case studies and hundreds of hours of clinical rotations in order to complete the hours of training needed for graduation. During this time, a student can also study in China for an externship at an affiliated Chinese teaching hospital.
In addition, an acupuncturist may perform range-of-motion tests, refer for radiographic studies and laboratory testing, and incorporate a "Western" and "Eastern" diagnosis of the patient's condition.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Acupuncture is used to alleviate many typical pregnancy-related complaints, including anything from nausea to sciatica. During each stage of pregnancy, there are certain points that should be used and others that should be avoided. Following these guidelines ensures safety of both the mother and the foetus.
Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
Although the placebo effect often plays a role in many treatments, acupuncture seems to work more from the body to the brain as opposed to the mind down. These results are seen not only with highly dubious people, but also in studies of the effects of acupuncture when used with animals.
What can I expect on my first visit?
Everybody experiences the effects of acupuncture a little differently. Depending on the type of problem being treated, some people may start to notice the benefits almost immediately while others need a few treatments before they feel a difference. Some people become very relaxed while others may feel euphoric or energized. People who don't feel any different when they leave the clinic may start to notice changes in their symptoms hours to days later.
This is one of the most common questions we are asked. To provide you with realistic expectations, many factors affecting your recovery time must be taken into consideration, including:
- acute vs. chronic pain
- first episode or recurrent problem
- history of previous injuries
- general health
- general fitness level (includes strength, flexibility and cardiovascular health)
- poor postural hygiene
- lifestyle (work, diet, sleep)
- patient comprehension and compliance with recommendations
- kept appointments
- stress (physical/mental/chemical)
- family history
These factors and your individual health goals combine to structure the frequency and duration of your care. For most pain conditions, a course of 6-8 treatments is initially recommended, and afterwards a follow up examination is performed. Most patients will see a moderate improvement within this period of time. If more treatment is needed, a new course of acupuncture will begin, until the patient is ready for maintenance care.
What are the different types of care I can receive?
Some people are looking strictly for symptom relief while others are interested in long-term strategies to maintain good health. There are three stages of care.
Initial Intensive Care (Crisis Management): The primary goal is symptom or pain relief. Depending on the severity of the problem, you may be treated as little as once a week or as often as every day.
Rehabilitative Care: The focus here is on correcting or eliminating the source of the problem. This minimizes your likelihood of a relapse. Treatment frequency starts to decrease and you are advised on home/office self-care to help support this process. You will notice further improvement in your range of movement, flexibility, strength, energy level, and/or general health.
Wellness Care: You have now returned to your pre-injury/illness state. Acknowledging that daily stresses and strains wear us all down, you choose to maintain an optimal level of functioning with periodic checkups. Depending on the factors listed above, you may receive maintenance treatments anywhere from one to six months but it is recommended to be proactive about your health and come for a treatment on a monthly or bi-monthly basis.