Frequently Asked Questions
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture stimulates the body’s ability to reopen the Meridian and correct imbalances and overcome illnesses or medical conditions. In that way, the points on the meridian are more like switches on the wire circuit. Biomedicine science has also found that Acupuncture can prompt the body to produce chemicals that decrease or eliminate painful sensations.
What happens during acupuncture treatment?
After you finish your medical history survey and TCM evaluation, the acupuncture physician will select meridians that are involved in the medical condition you have. then they will choose 3-5 points to target. Acupuncture needles are sterile, pre-packaged, disposable, and hair-thin. The needles are placed at various depths, ranging from one inch to two inches.
What does acupuncture feel like?
You may feel a slight prick when the needle is inserted, but it is much less than the prick you feel during an IV placement or vaccination shot since the needles are much thinner.
You may feel a heaviness, numbness, tingling or mild soreness after the needles have been inserted. A feeling of deep heaviness or numbness, called “Deqi” means the treatment is working.
What should I do after an acupuncture treatment?
It is best to bring someone with you on your first acupuncture treatment so that you will have transportation home. This is because acupuncture has a very calming effect. You may feel overly relaxed after the treatment and may not be ready to drive. No matter how good you feel after the treatment, it is important not to overextend yourself. You should take it easy for a few days after the treatment. After 30 min, drink 250 ml of warm water. In addition, it is important to continue taking your prescribed medications.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. When acupuncture is performed with disposable needles under clean, sterile conditions, it is highly unusual to have any complications. One of the advantages of acupuncture is that the incidence of adverse effects is substantially lower than that of many drugs or accepted medical procedures used for the same conditions.
What conditions can be treated with acupuncture?
Although acupuncture is not a “cure-all” treatment, it is very effective in treating some diseases and conditions. Acupuncture is most effective at treating chronic pain, such as headaches, menstrual cramps, and low back and neck pain. It can also be used to treat osteoarthritis, facial pain, spastic colon, and repetitive strain conditions. Acupuncture also can improve the functioning of the immune system (the body’s defense system against diseases). For most people, acupuncture can fight fatigue, calm anxiety, and relieve stress.
For certain conditions, such as cancer, acupuncture should be performed in combination with other treatments. Patients should know that some patients respond extremely well to acupuncture stimulation, while others may not see noticeable results until after a while.
How often should I be treated with acupuncture?
The number of treatments required depends on each person’s condition and response to acupuncture. One acupuncture session does not usually result in relief of pain. One or two sessions a week for five to six weeks is the normal course of treatment. Your physician will discuss with you how many treatments you should have and how often you should have them.
What are some guidelines to follow if I decide to try acupuncture?
Don’t rely on only acupuncture for treatment of chronic or serious illness unless you see your primary care physician first. Acupuncture may not be the only way to improve your condition. Your PCP may recommend acupuncture treatment along with other treatment methods such as physical therapy or medication. In addition, it may be helpful to try acupuncture for at least 5 or 10 treatments before deciding that it is not helpful for you.
Does the medical field approve of acupuncture?
Yes. There are more than 16,000 licensed acupuncturists in the United States and 3,000 physicians who perform acupuncture as part of their medical practice. The World Health Organization currently recognizes more than 40 medical problems -- including pain, gastrointestinal, gynecological, and respiratory conditions as well as sports injuries -- that can be helped by acupuncture treatment. Lastly, in 1996, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reclassified acupuncture needles, regulating them as it does with other medical devices. Acupuncture needles must now be manufactured according to single-use standards of sterility and are intended for general use by qualified practitioners.
About Acupuncture
H.F. Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Center
Tallahassee, FL