What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing modality that involves the insertion of very fine needles into the skin at specific acupuncture points. Acupuncture points are thought to lie on pathways, or meridians, throughout the entire body. Meridians closely follow the paths of the nervous system but are slightly different in function. Contained in the meridians is qi, which is similar to energy. In a healthy system, qi flows smoothly throughout the body, assisting in different physiological and energetic functions. In Chinese medicine, pain and disease are considered to be a result of blockages in these meridians. Using acupuncture, and often herbal medicine, I seek to regulate these pathways so qi can circulate freely through the body.

What conditions can acupuncture treat

Acupuncture can help with a wide variety of conditions. Here are a few examples:

Musculoskeletal pain, athletic and motorvehicle injuries
Headaches
Gastrointestinal problems
Gynecological complaints
Psycho-emotional disorders including stress, anxiety and depression
Common colds and respiratory disorders
Circulatory disorders

While acupuncture is a very effective therapy for many conditions, it is not a cure in itself. I strongly believe in integrative medicine and encourage you to see your primary care physician on a regular basis.

What should I do to prepare for my first appointment?

Make sure you have eaten something before your treatment. This will help prevent dizziness or nausea from the needles. Wear comfortable, loose clothing if possible. Most importantly, relax and enjoy the experience. Be open to how your body reacts and make sure you ask any questions you have before, during and after the treatment. Also, be sure to let me know if you have high blood pressure, epilepsy, a pacemaker or if you are pregnant.

What can I expect at my first visit?

Your first visit can range from one to one and a half hours. After you fill out some initial paperwork, I will conduct a thorough intake in order to understand your present concerns as well as your health history. The extended intake also allows me to get a feel for your individual constitution, which will help me tailor a treatment plan for you. In addition to the verbal intake, I will often have you perform range-of-motion tests as well as a variety of physical examinations.

As part of the traditional Chinese medicine exam, I will ask to feel your pulses on each wrist. I will also examine your tongue. These two exams help me determine your Chinese medical diagnosis. After the exam, I will have you lay on the table and swab each point (usually from 10-20 points) with alcohol. I will then insert the needles into these points. Retention time varies but it ranges from 10-30 minutes. I may also do some massage cupping or cranio-sacral work while the needles are in, or after I take them out. In addition to the acupuncture treatment, I may suggest an herbal remedy and/or dietary modifications.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture should not be a painful experience. Some people feel a slight sharpness when a needle is inserted but this sensation goes away quickly. Some pain can occur if you try to move a part of your body where the needles are inserted. You are encouraged to relax and try to stay still to avoid any discomfort. The desired sensation during an acupuncture treatment is a deep, heavy feeling at the insertion points. If you experience any pain during the treatment, let me know, and I will adjust or remove the needles.

What is electro-acupuncture?

This type of treatment involves connecting points with electrical current. It can help with pain management, weakness, and neurological problems.

What can I expect after my treatment?

Different people experience different sensations after an acupuncture treatment. Commonly people feel relaxed and possibly even tired. Others feel invigorated and energized. Although rare, in some cases you may feel light-headed or dizzy. If this is the case, just take your time getting up off the table.

I encourage you to avoid taking part in a lot of physical or mental activity afterwards as it can detract from the effects of the treatment. Also, be sure to drink a lot of water. If you experience nausea or pain, please let me know and I will adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

How many treatments will I need?

It differs with each person. In general, chronic conditions tend to take longer than more acute conditions. For painful conditions, you should start noticing a change within a few treatments if not right away. I will generally suggest a treatment course of 6-12 sessions, after which I will reassess your condition. I will work with you to decide if you should continue with acupuncture or if you should try a different type of treatment.

What are the main objectives of treatment?

Through acupuncture, I seek to open up the body's pathways so that blood, nutrients, and energy can flow freely. By doing this, we can remove obstructions that cause pain, stress, and imbalance. I will work with you to set tangible and realistic goals for your healthcare.