What does an acupuncturist do?

During the initial exam a full health history is taken.  Questions are asked regarding your health, symptoms, and lifestyle.  Your acupuncturist may also check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam.  This information is then organized to create a complete and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced.  After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment.  Visits with your acupuncturist may last from 30 to 90 minutes.

Why do they want to feel my pulse?

There are 12 pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate.  Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ.  Your acupuncturist will be looking for 27 individual qualities that reflect overall health.  If there are any problems, they may appear on the pulse.

Why do they want to look at my tongue?

The tongue is a map of the body.  It reflects the general health of the organs and the meridians.  Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments will vary from person to person.  Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results.  Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones.  ***Plan on a minimum of one month to see significant changes.

What should I expect during treatment?

Where the acupuncture needles have been inserted, you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or dull ache.  Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle.  This feeling is called the "Qi sensation."  All these reactions are good and a sign that the treatment is working.  After treatment, you may feel energized or may experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.

Do the needles hurt?

The sensation caused by an acupuncture needle varies.  Some people feel a little prick as the needles are inserted, but most people feel no pain at all.  People mistake acupuncture needles with injection needles.  Modern acupuncture needles are ultra-fine, no larger than a human hair, and are quite flexible.

How deep do the needles go?

The depth of the insertion varies.  For example, your acupuncturist will use a needling technique that is different in fleshier areas, such as your buttocks.  Typically, needles are inserted at depths of 1/8" to 1".

How safe is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is extremely safe.  It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy with no side effects other than feelings of relaxation and well-being.  The needles are pre-sterilized, individually wrapped and non-toxic.  They are designed for a single-use and then discarded into sharps containers.

Still have questions?  Please contact us.  We look forward to hearing from you.