What is the purpose of acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the five pillars of Chinese Medicine, which follows time-tested principles and methods for balancing the body’s organ and other systems.
Do the needles hurt?
This is a common concern. Acupuncture needles are very thin (about 1/20th the size of an injection needle). You might feel pressure during insertion, but there should not be any lasting pain or discomfort afterward.
What conditions are treated with acupuncture?
Acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of acute and chronic conditions.
Some common conditions I treat include (but are not limited to):
- Musculoskeletal disorders (traumatic injuries, “tennis elbow,” whiplash)
- Pain management (headaches, neck pain, back pain, jaw pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Post-surgery rehabilitation
- Stress management (anxiety, insomnia)
- Respiratory disorders (allergies, common cold & flu, long COVID symptoms)
- Neurological disorders (Bell’s Palsy, peripheral neuropathy)
- Digestive issues (allergies, bloating & gas, nausea, food poisoning, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease)
How many sessions are needed for acupuncture to be effective?
Generally speaking, the longer a person has had an existing health challenge, the longer or more frequent treatments might be more effective.
However, I emphasize educating and guiding clients to take charge and make positive health impacts in all areas of life, which can affect treatment frequency and dependency.
What do I wear for my acupuncture appointment?
Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing is best for needling purposes. You might also be asked to remove jewelry, watches, and glasses.
How do I prepare for my acupuncture session?
Eat a light meal at least an hour before your session. Plan your schedule to allow for a light and easy day after the session.
What should I expect after a session?
Most people feel a sense of well-being and rejuvenation afterward, and the therapeutic effect can last for a few days after treatment. During this time, the body assimilates and integrates the changes caused by the treatment.
However, you might also experience more intense healing effects (I will warn you about this beforehand). If you receive cupping or Gua Sha, you may experience bruising that will last for a few days.