FAQs

What is acupuncture?

As an acupuncturist I get this question a lot. I will tell you a little bit about what I have learned and know to be true about acupuncture.
I hope this will inspire you to check it out and experience all the benefits from this wonderful medicine!

Acupuncture is a form of Chinese Medicine that originated in China 3,000+ years ago. Chinese Medicine views the mind, body, and soul as one and treats illness, or disharmony, in the body on an individual basis. The goal of acupuncture is to balance the body by stimulating the acupuncture points. Acupuncture points are located on meridians, invisible lines of energy, that run along the body. The energy or life force in the body is commonly referred to as Qi (pronounced “chee”). When there is a block in the flow of Qi and excess or deficient Qi in the meridian, disharmony will occur. This could show up in the form of pain, mental/emotional stress, digestive issues, illness, or disease. To correct the flow of Qi, acupoints are stimulated by inserting very thin, sterile needles, into the skin at the specific acupoint location. When Qi flows properly in the channel, healing will occur.

Acupuncture can be used to help treat many things. The most common are:

  • pain

  • allergies

  • common cold

  • digestive issues

  • anxiety

  • depression

  • stress

  • insomnia

  • menstrual issues

Acupuncture can be hugely helpful in staying healthy, healing, and preventing illness. In this day in age when stress is glorified, vacations are few and far between, and toxins are in the air, hiding in our water, and sprayed all over our food, we have to put extra effort towards staying healthy. Acupuncture is a great way to help build a strong immune system, calm the nervous system, and reduce inflammation.

In addition to acupuncture, Chinese Medicine utilizes other healing modalities like Tui Na (Chinese massage), moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, Chinese herbs, and nutrition. I love incorporating all of these into my practice. I think it is important to set small goals inside of lifestyle changes that will contribute to healing and living a healthier life physically and mentally. Change is difficult. I firmly believe that small steps are the only way we start our journey to improving our lives and healing our minds and bodies.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture feels different for everyone. Most people don’t notice much when the needles are inserted. Sometimes people might feel a dull ache or heaviness where the needle is inserted, or occasionally mild itchiness. Most all sensation subsides quickly and people tend to get so relaxed they fall asleep after needles are inserted.

Do you reuse needles?

Absolutely not. Each needle comes sterilized and ready for one-time use. Once it is used it is disposed of in a Sharps container. Needles are never inserted twice.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments a person needs is completely individual. I typically suggest 6 consecutive treatments, however some issues could take more or less time. Acupuncture has an accumulation effect. The more you do, the better the body responds and the longer the treatment holds.

It is also important to note that acupuncture is a great preventive medicine. Getting treated on a routine basis will help keep stress levels down, increase immunity, and improve one’s overall well being. Personally, I get treated every other week to help maintain a balance. Some months I need more and sometimes I need less.

What do I wear?

Loose-fitting clothing is best for acupuncture. Unless you are getting a back treatment or need needles in the thigh area, you will likely be able to keep on all your clothes. Loose-fitting clothes will allow me to get to areas on the legs, arms, and stomach without you having to change. If you do need to remove any clothing, I will step out of the room and provide you with a sheet or gown to cover yourself once you’re on the table.

Are there side effects to acupuncture?

There are common side effects to acupuncture, however they are rare. Occasionally patients will feel tired after a treatment. Typically this happens in the first treatment or two. It is also possible a patient will feel a bit worse right after a treatment, but improve greatly the next day. Bruising can also be a side effect. Harmless, but possible.

How long are treatments?

Your first treatment will be an hour and a half since I will have a lot of questions for you. Follow-up treatments will be an hour. For follow-ups we will typically chat for 15-20 minutes and then spend the rest of the time with needles in and finish with Tui Na (Chinese massage), moxibustion, cupping, or gua sha.

Do you have any at-home resources available?

On my YouTube page, you will find fun acupressure videos for kids (and adults!) as well as some “How To” at-home videos.