• What are main functions of Acupuncture?

1. Analgesia
2. Correct immune disorder
3. Regulate physiological function

 

• How does Acupuncture work?

Acupuncture helps body heal itself. Our bodies are designed with great healing powers, but sometimes bodies need a little help to heal and that’s what acupuncture does. It also helps the body heal faster.

• What to expect at your visit?

People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel a slight sting or no pain when the needle is inserted. The needles are about human hair thin, solid and disposable. You may experience numbness, heaviness, vague tingling, or slight soreness after the needle has been inserted. A feeling of deep heaviness or numbness means the treatment is working. Sometimes you may also experience a sensation of energy (Qi) spreading and moving along the meridian. These are desired effects and should not feel painful. Generally the needles are retained for 15-30 minutes. During this period, you should feel comfortable and relaxed.

In order to strengthen your overall health and vitality, suggestions will be offered for lifestyle improvements in diet, supplementation, exercise, sleep, and stress management.  Often sessions will include cupping, moxibustion, electroacupuncture, scraping (Gua Sha), facial massage, and/or Chinese massage (Tui Na). Chinese herbal medicine will be prescribed if needed.

• What to prepare before coming to your visit?

Make sure you eat before coming to the treatment, but 30 minutes after the meal. Hunger or overeaten can cause fainting during the treatment, because Acupuncture can be stimulating.

• What to expect after treatment?

Most people report they feel relaxed and a sense of well being afterwards. Plan to take it easy after your treatment. Most people also sleep great the same night as their treatment. Sometimes after receiving a treatment, you may feel a little lightheaded, especially when treating back. If this is the case, please sit down in the waiting room and drink extra warm water. In a few minutes, you’ll feel relaxed and clear-headed.

• How many treatments do I need?

Everyone responds treatment differently, and acupuncture has a cumulative effect. Each treatment builds on the effects of the previous treatments, as your body is reminded how to heal itself and maintain balance. An initial treatment plan will usually consist of 5 to 8 acupuncture treatments.Depending on the condition, fewer or more treatments may be needed. Recently occurring or acute illnesses may resolve with only a few treatments, while conditions that developed over many years will likely require a longer course of treatment to be fully resolved.Ultimately the goal is to alleviate the condition so that acupuncture is only needed occasionally for maintenance, or for new acute conditions as they arise. A study has shown in China, 30% of population doesn’t respond acupuncture for pain management if there is no change after 5-8 treatments.