FAQs
FAQs on Acupuncture
What Does Acupuncture Treatment Feel Like?
According to most patients who have tried acupuncture, the whole experience is very relaxing. At the moment a needle is inserted into the skin, there may be a tingling or numbing sensation and some describe the feeling like a dull ache.
This is a sign that Qi is stimulated properly. It should be noted that the fine needles are much thinner than those you may have seen in a blood test. The hair-like needles are often unnoticeable in the skin.
How Many Treatment Sessions Will I Need?
It depends on the specific conditions you hope to treat. After the initial examination, you should probably return for treatment sessions once or twice per week. The results will begin to be noticed after the second or third session, but more serious conditions may take a bit longer to manifest improvements.
After the conditions have improved slightly, you may be able to reduce your treatment sessions to once every two weeks or once a month. Furthermore, acupuncture can be applied as a preventative health care method that helps to resist sickness and disease.
How Will I Feel After Acupuncture Treatment?
You will probably feel very relaxed and at ease, possibly with a feeling of well-being. Some of the treatments may even make you feel especially drowsy shortly thereafter.
How Should I Prepare for an Acupuncture Treatment?
You will want to avoid eating a large meal for at least an hour before your acupuncture examination. This is important because the digestive process places strain on the body and can affect the heart rate.
You should also avoid drinking any beverages that will alter the colour of your tongue, teas, coffee and alcoholic beverages for example. Finally, wearing loose clothing makes the examination easier. Loose clothes can be rolled up to provide access to acupuncture points around the body.
What Should I Do After Each Treatment?
You will feel very relaxed and maybe a little drowsy, but you should have no problem going back to work. It may not be best to suddenly engage in anything strenuous or physically demanding until the following day. Also, don’t drink alcohol for the first 24 hours after treatment as this can also affect the treatment.
Does Acupuncture have any Negative Side Effects?
One of the greatest things about acupuncture is that it is virtually free of side effects. The only ones that do exist are fairly small and include minor bruising and flare-ups at acupuncture points. If this happens to you, don’t panic; it is just the Qi resetting itself and is no cause for concern. It will soon pass, but if it does persist talk to your acupuncturist for more information.
Should Teenagers or Children Have Acupuncture?
Certainly. Acupuncture has been found to be as effective for adolescents and teenagers as adults. Accompanied by conventional medicine it can be effective for a number of conditions as well as preventing sickness and maintaining health.
How Does Acupuncture Improve the Health?
Acupuncture seeks to improve the body’s own process to heal and regenerate. This has benefits for a wide range of health conditions. Insomnia, chronic pains, digestive conditions, fatigue, and migraines are some of the most commonly treated conditions.
Should I Let My GP Know that I am Seeing an Acupuncturist?
If you are seeing a medical professional for any treatment you should let them know of your plans to seek acupuncture treatment. Your acupuncturist will also need to know about any treatments or medications you are currently on so that they can factor this into their treatment plans.
Should I Continue Taking My Meds?
Yes. Even though there is a chance that acupuncture may reverse your conditions, you should never discontinue a medication plan without informing your medical practitioner.