faq

1) What's acupuncture good for?

The following ailments and conditions generally respond well to acupuncture:

Acute muscle strains, joint sprains
Acute & chronic neck & back pain
Headache
Irregular menstruation, painful menstruation
Constipation & diarrhea
Indigestion
Post-stroke paralysis
Addictions - overeating, smoking & drug dependence

2) Does acupuncture hurt?

If you've never had acupuncture this is an obvious question to ask. However acupuncture needles are extremely fine and usually you will just feel a sensation like a mosquito bite as the needle is inserted. The sensation does vary depending on where the needles are inserted but very few people say acupuncture hurts.

2) What are the needles like?

Only sterile, disposable needles are used so there is no risk of infection. We use a needle once, then dispose of it.

Acupuncture needles are small and hair-thin. They are solid, not hollow like needles used by doctors. The end of an acupuncture needle is smooth and rounded. Acupuncture needles are not designed to cut the skin. Instead, when an acupuncture needle is inserted, the round edge pushes the tissue aside without cutting it. Acupuncture needles are so thin it's as if they can glide through the spaces between the individual cells of the body.

3) How often will I need acupuncture?

Usually acupuncturists advise 1-3 treatments a week. To enhance acupuncture treatments many acupuncturists also prescribe Chinese herbal medicine. Chinese herbal medicine is available in many forms, like pill, tablet, granule and powder, making it easy and convenient to take.

5) How quickly can I expect to feel better?

In general, patients should start to feel the benefits from acupuncture in 2-3 treatments.

Overall treatment time is dependent on many factors such as the nature and severity of your complaint, how long you've had it, your age, your general health, your lifestyle. Your acupuncturist will best be able to tell you how many treatments you need after they have diagnosed your particular problem.

6) Do I have to believe in it for it to work?

No. Acupuncture works whether or not you think it will. Acupuncture is even used successfully on animals and children. They do not understand or believe in the process yet they get better anyway. A positive attitude helps with any type of therapy but it is not necessary to believe in acupuncture (or to feel it working) for it to work.

9) What should I wear for the treatment?

Just wear loose fitting clothes that can be easily rolled up above your elbows and knees.