What is accupuncture?
Acupuncture involves stimulating points on the body, by inserting thin needles that are manipulated by hand or sometimes by electrical stimulation. By stimulating specific anatomic sites, also called acupuncture points, acupuncture can promote self-healing.
Mechanism: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views it as a way to balance energy flow, while Western medicine often sees it as a method to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue, potentially boosting the body’s natural painkillers.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncturists describe the needles as hair-thin, stainless steel, and disposable. While you may feel some sensation as the needles are inserted, it’s not described as painful.
Can I Use Acupuncture in Addition to Other Methods for Reducing Pain?
Yes, Acupuncture is a safe modality to support pain reduction and management. If you have experienced recent accidents or head traumas, then extra precaution is reviewed with your acupuncturist to ensure you have a proper assessment.
Is Acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture should only be provided by qualified and certified practitioners with sterile disposal needles. A qualified acupuncturist has acquired a Master’s degree (MS) from a Certified Acupuncture School and has a current good-standing state license to practice. California state has the highest qualifications required to be state-certified and is recognized as a Primary Health Care Provider (LAc.)
The mission of the California Acupuncture Board is: “To benefit, educate and protect the public through regulation of licensure; development of education standards; provision of consumer information; and enforcement of the Acupuncture Licensure Act.” In summary, the California Acupuncture Board exists to protect you, the public.
What Is Acupuncture Best For?
Acupuncture is best known for easing pain, but the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture highlights a range of conditions that the World Health Organization recommends for treatment with acupuncture.
These include respiratory diseases such as allergies, colds, tonsillitis, bronchitis, asthma, sinusitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and hay fever.
Eye disorders like myopia, acute conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome, macular degeneration, eye strain, and retinal disorders can also benefit from acupuncture.
In terms of orthopedic disorders, acupuncture may help with sciatica, rheumatoid arthritis, tennis elbow, osteoarthritis, frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back pain, and neck pain.
For gastrointestinal disorders, conditions such as hiccups, constipation, diarrhea, gastritis, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea and vomiting, and acid reflux (GERD) are addressed.
Neurologic disorders, including migraine, facial paralysis, tension headaches, neuropathy, multiple sclerosis symptoms, and stroke recovery support, can be alleviated as well.
Additionally, acupuncture offers benefits for conditions related to stress and anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, skin conditions like eczema and acne, and immune system support.
By addressing this diverse range of issues, acupuncture provides a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Does Acupuncture Work for Treating Mental Health Conditions?
Acupuncture may have a positive effect on many common mental health conditions, including Depression, Anxiety, and Post-traumatic stress.
Research has shown that acupuncture can increase endorphins, which may relieve pain and improve mental health.
What Should You Wear to an Acupuncture Session?
Loose, comfortable clothing is ideal. Although acupuncture shouldn't cause pain or soreness, clothing that lets you be comfortable and relax during and after the session will ensure you get the maximum benefit.
Loose clothing also gives the acupuncturist access to your skin. Depending on your clothing and acupuncture therapy, you may need to remove some of your clothing. Note that acupuncture often takes place on many parts of the body, not just an injured area.
Should I eat something before I receive treatment?
To enhance your acupuncture experience, we encourage you to eat a light meal or snack before your treatment. Nourishing your body helps support the flow of Qi, or vital energy, during the session. A balanced intake can lead to better results and a more comfortable experience, allowing you to fully benefit from the healing process. Remember to stay hydrated as well!
How Often Should You Get Acupuncture?
How often a patient should get acupuncture depends on their health and the condition being treated. Sessions might be weekly, monthly, or something in between. Generally, frequent regular acupuncture sessions provide the most improvement.
Regular sessions can also help patients attain long-term benefits. However, your provider will tailor any acupuncture treatment to your personal needs. Our team can help you develop a treatment schedule that offers optimum benefits and works with any other therapies you are receiving.
Should I receive treatment if I am sick or not feeling well?
If you're feeling under the weather, consider visiting us for acupuncture. This gentle and holistic treatment can help support your body’s natural healing processes, alleviate symptoms, and boost your immune system. Whether you're dealing with a cold, allergies, or other illnesses, acupuncture can be a valuable resource for restoring balance and promoting recovery. Don’t wait—your well-being is our priority!
What if I am scared of needles?
Here are 4 tips that can help you out ;)
Tip #1: Research Acupuncture
So much of our fear comes from the unknown, and taking just a few minutes to learn more about acupuncture and the needles we use can go a long way toward relieving some of your anxiety over your first appointment.
Tip #2: Talk to your acupuncturist
Your Acupuncturist takes special care and provides reassuring guidance during treatment to ensure a safe experience. Talk through your concerns with your acupuncturist.
Tip #3: Breathe
A relaxed patient is a happy patient! taking a few calming deep breaths can go a long way toward settling your mind and body. Acupuncture is relaxing, so you’ll likely calm down, rest, and maybe even fall asleep during treatment. Your acupuncturist will provide guidance.
Tip #4: Remember you’re in control
You are in charge. Most people don’t feel acupuncture needles at all, Any needle can be removed and adjusted for a better experience. Our rooms have individual temperature controls, bed warmers, and heat lamps that can be adjusted to your comfort level. Acupuncture is about so much more than needles, you are relaxing to the sounds, smells, and temperature. This is your safe space.