What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture views human body as a biological energy field. This energy, Qi, flows along 14 channels in the whole body. Each channel is associated with a particular physiological system and internal organ. There are 361 classic acupuncture points along the channels. If those channels are imbalanced or blocked, disease will rise. Very fine needles are inserted into various points of the body to restore and balance the normal flow of energy. Each point has a predictable effect to certain part of human body or associated disease, thus help relieving pain and improving body function.

Acupuncture is one of the safest of all medical practices, while still maintaining a high degree of favorable results. In fact, it is a natural therapy without introducing any chemicals or drugs into your system, but can still balance your body hormones, change the circulation of your blood, release pain and stress and totally cure some diseases.

Acupuncture is currently used by 10 million American patients yearly and performed by thousands of physicians, master's degree level acupuncturists and other practitioners for relief or prevention of pain and a variety of health problems. Instead of using invasive techniques and harsh drugs, acupuncture unlocks the body's natural ability to heal.

go top

Does acupuncture hurt?

Most people agree that acupuncture is practically painless. It bears no resemblance to the feeling of receiving an injection, since the main source of pain from injection is the larger diameter, hollow needle and the medication being forced into the tissue by pressure. Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and always sterilized (individually prepackaged) according to modern surgical standards.

In the hands of trained acupuncturist, the needle is almost not felt as it enters the skin. However, a slight tingling or pressure may be felt momentarily when it reaches the correct spot under the skin. This indicates that the Qi (the energy flow) has been reached. During the treatment, patients may feel some heaviness or electric sensation either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridian, or energy pathway. In any case, if you experience any discomfort, it is usually mild. Most patients find the treatment very relaxing and many fall asleep during treatment. It is important that the patient be relaxed and comfortable during treatment so that desired results can be attained.

go top

How deep do the needles go?

That depends on the nature of the problem, the location of the points selected and the patient's size, age, and constitution. It also depends on the acupuncturist’s style or school. Usually, needles are inserted from 1/4 to 1 inch in depth. For certain areas in upper legs or hips, longer needles are needed.

go top

Are there any side effects?

Acupuncture has withstood the test of time for millions of people. It is a completely safe system with virtually no side effects. After an acupuncture treatment, most people will experience a sense of well being, relaxation and often be energized.

In rare cases, some people experience dizziness, nausea, cold sweat, shortness of breath or faintness during treatment. This often occurs if you are nervous. Inform your doctor immediately so that the doctor can adjust or withdraw the needles.

go top

Is there anything I need to do while receiving acupuncture?

First, relax. There is no need to be frightened. Ask your doctor any questions you have so that you can get the most benefit possible from the treatment. Second, do not change your position or move suddenly. If you are uncomfortable, tell you doctor. If you find your treatment unbearable at any point, be sure to speak up so that your doctor can make the proper adjustment or stop the treatment.

go top

What illness can be treated successfully with acupuncture?

There is a wide variety of illness which acupuncture may treat. Among its many benefits, the most dramatic effect of acupuncture is the elimination and management of various pain syndromes. Check our Service section for the conditions that we treat at this clinic using acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

go top

What can I expect after treatment?

You may note a spot of blood at one or more of the needle sites. Sometimes a small bruise could develop. These should not be harmful and will go away?after a short period of time, but please talk to the doctor if you are concerned.

Patients often experience dramatic results?from the first treatment. Some patients experience an immediate total or partial relief of their pain or other symptoms. This relief may last or some pain and symptoms may return. In some cases there may be no immediate relief only to notice the symptoms diminish over the next couple of days. Generally, you should expect to feel better.

go top

What are the chances of being helped?

A high percentage of patients experience good to complete improvement. As in any other forms of healing, the patient's attitude, diet, determination and lifestyle will affect the outcome of treatment. And the results are not guaranteed. As a matter of fact, most people in the West who seek acupuncture have conditions which have proven resistant to other types of treatment. Many patients try it as a last resource and find the solution to their problem.

The required number of treatments cannot be predetermined. They will vary in accordance with the nature and severity of the ailment. It is usually recommended that a course of 7-10 treatment sessions be given, preferably on a twice a week basis in the beginning and then spread out as the patient starts to improve. In chronic cases, more than one course of treatment may be needed.

go top