What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the modalities of Oriental Medicine.  Although what is called acupuncture in the West comprises several different therapies (such as moxibustion and cupping).  Mostly it consists of the insertion of fine needles into the body at specific points shown to be effective in the treatment of specific health problems.  These points have been mapped by the Chinese, and there are over 1000 acupoints.  In the past three decades, electromagnetic research has confirmed the existence and location of these points.

How does Acupuncture work?

Modern western medicine cannot yet explain how acupuncture works.  Traditional asian acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of qi (a fine essential substance which nourishes and constructs the body) through distinct channels that cover the body somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels.  According to this theory, acupuncture adjusts the flow of qi in the body, leading it to areas where it is insufficient and draining it from areas where it is sufficient where it is stuck or superabdundant.  In this way, acupuncture restores the harmonious balance of the body and its parts.  In Chinese there is a saying, “If there is pain, there is no free flow; if there is free flow, there is no pain.” Acupuncture promotes and reestablishes the free flow of qi.

Is Acupuncture safe?

When performed by a trained, licensed professional, acupuncture is extremely safe.  All licensed acupuncturists today use individually packed, sterile disposable needles.  So there is virtually no chance of infection or contagion.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are typically not much thicker than a hair, and their insertion is practically painless.  It is nothing like receiving an injection.  In some cases, you will not even know there is a needle in place.  In others, there may be some tingling, warmth, heaviness or a feeling of the qi moving  up and down the channels.  Most people find acupuncture extremely relaxing and many fall asleep during treatments.

How many Acupuncture treatments will I need?

That depends on the severity and nature of your complaint.  You may need only a single treatment for an acute condition.   A series of 5-10 treatments may resolve many chronic problems.  Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time.  To help reduce the number of treatments, your practitoner may suggest dietary modifications, specific exercise regimens, relaxation techniques, self-massage, and/or Chinese herbal medicine, all of which may help to increase the efficacy of acupuncture.

Are there different styles of Acupuncture?

Acupuncture originated in China but has spread to Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Europe and America.  In different countries, different styles have developed based on differing opinions as to theory and technique.  Patients should talk to their practitioner about his or her particular style and learn as much as possible about the treatment being proposed.

Your pracitioners will explain the nature of your problem in Oriental Medical terms and what treatment he or she is recommending.  Your practitioner will tell you what benefits and risks there are to the proposed treatment and what other treatment options are available to you through this pracititoner or by referral to another practitioner or physician.

What criteria should I use in choosing an acupuncturist?

Prospective patients should ask about where the pracititioner trained and for how long he/she has been in practice, and most importantly, what experience the pracititoner has had in treating your specific ailment.  Acupuncture is a licensed and regulated health  care profesion in over 40 states in the U.S.  In addition The National Commission for the certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) certifies both acupuncturists and chinese herbal practitioners.  Acupuncturists that have passed the NCCAOM exam are entitled to add Dipl. Ac (Diplomate of Acupuncture) after their name.

Is there anything I need to do before receiving an acupuncture session?

The following suggestions will help you get the maximum benefts from your treatment.

1. Wear loose clothing.  Women should not wear a one piece dress.  Avoid wearing stockings.
2. Avoid treatment when excessively fatigued, hungry, full, emotionally upset or shortly after sex.

Still have questions?

If you have questions about acupuncture and would like more information, please contact us, we are happy to answer any questions you have or will send you more information on a specific condition.