FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What does acupuncture feel like? Is it safe?
Most People Feel No or Minimal Pain. Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the needle can cause soreness and pain during treatment. This is why it is important to seek treatment from a qualified acupuncture practitioner.
Are there any side effects to Acupuncture?
One of the great advantages of acupuncture is that, other than an occasional bruise, there are no side effects.
Where do the needles go?
This depends on the condition being treated. Although the acupoints are located throughout the entire body, usually the needles are placed on the extremities from your elbows down to your hands, and from your knees down to your feet. Other common areas include the abdomen, back, and ears.
Is there medicine on the needle?
No. It is the needle itself that initiates physiological changes in the body.
Can I receive Acupuncture if I am pregnant?
Yes. Because there are some points that are contraindicated during pregnancy, it is important to inform your practitioner if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant.
Should I stop other medications?
No. You should continue to follow your current physician's instructions. Please remember that acupuncture is used to complement and supplement your physician's treatments not to replace them. You should discuss this issue with your physician and acupuncturist.
How many treatments will I require?
Each patient is unique and responds to acupuncture differently, so the number and frequency of treatments will vary from patient to patient.
At Spring Life, we need to see results within the first three sessions - after which we can determine an individual's rate of response to the treatment.
An individual's rate of response to address a specific health concern depends upon the duration, severity, and nature of the complaint. You may need only a single treatment for an acute condition or a series of five to fifteen treatments to resolve many chronic problems. Your body constitution, severity of problem, and the length of time that you have been sick, will all play a part in this. Since acupuncture addresses the health of the whole body, there are many people that seek regular acupuncture treatment to maintain good health and as a preventative measure.
What are the main objectives of acupuncture treatment?
- Relief Care: To relieve pain and other symptoms
- Corrective Care: To strengthen the organ systems of the body so that they are working harmoniously. To restore the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body.
- Maintenance Care: To maintain health and wellness though sustaining a unified, healthy state. This is long-term care that is designed TO KEEP YOU HEALTHY & WELL. Preventative medicine is the true path of health.
How should I prepare for a treatment?
Please try to wear or bring comfortable clothing to your treatment. This will allow our practitioners to be able to access the acupuncture points with ease, and it will help you to feel relaxed. Please try to avoid eating a heavy meal or skipping a meal before coming to your appointment.
What do I need to do after a treatment?
- Please drink water
- Continue taking your medications, as prescribed by your medical doctor.
- Notice how you feel for the next hours or days. I will be asking you questions about changes on your next visit to see your progress. Pay particular attention to any changes in your pain level, quality of sleep, energy level and appetite
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