• What is Acupuncture & How Does it Work?

 

Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), aims to help the body function more efficiently by addressing the root cause of illness, not just its symptoms. Based on a 3,000-year-old belief, it focuses on the flow of "Qi" (vital life force) through channels in the body. When Qi is blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to pain and illness.

 

Acupuncture involves inserting sterile, disposable needles into specific points where Qi is concentrated. This process stimulates the body's natural healing mechanisms, boosting blood flow and releasing pain-relieving chemicals like endorphins and norepinephrine.

 

Though commonly used for pain relief, acupuncture can treat a wide range of conditions by influencing the body's physiological and biochemical states. Practitioners may also use complementary techniques like cupping, gua sha, and moxibustion to further balance Qi and promote healing.

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• Is Acupuncture Needling Painful?  

 

A momentary prick may be felt at few points, but there is mostly NO pain. The idea is to reduce overall pain and give our patients a relaxing treatment. It's amazing to see how relaxed our patients feel during and after each treatment. You've got to try it to believe it!

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• Are There Any Side Effects of Acupuncture?

 

First, make sure you choose a licensed, qualified, state board and NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine) certified practitioner. Don't forget to check their credentials. 

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The majority of patients have little to no side effects after treatments. The side effects they may experience are temporary and non-life-threatening. Sensations of lightheadedness, soreness, heaviness, and dull-achy feelings at the insertion sites are what we like to call "positive side effects," which indicate increased circulation and nervous system downregulation. Other side effects, like bruising, muscle twitching, and emotional release are all common, but not too alarming.

 

We suggest to always be aware of your feelings/sensations during your treatments and report to the practitioner of any uncomfortable or unappealing feelings. Our job is to help ensure that our clients feel invigorating, relaxed and calm after each treatment.

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• How Should I Prepare?

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1. Arrive Early: For your first appointment, please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time to complete any necessary paperwork.

2. Complete Patient Forms: Please take time to review and fill out all required patient forms before your appointment. If possible, please print and fill out your forms before the appointment. They can be found under the "New Patient Forms" tab at the top of the page.

3. Eat a Light Snack: On the day of your treatment, have a small meal or snack to avoid light-headedness and ensure your body has enough energy for the session.

4. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Please wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes to allow easy access to acupuncture points.

5. Relax Upon Arrival: When you arrive at the clinic, sit down for a moment and take a few deep breaths to calm your mind and relax.

6. Treatment Duration: Please allow 80 minutes for the initial treatment and 45 minutes for follow-up sessions.

7. Hydrate After Treatment: After each session, drink a glass of water to help stabilize your energy ("Qi") and support detoxification.

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• What to Expect After My Initial and Follow-up Treatments?

 

Most people find acupuncture treatments soothing and relaxing. As the body shifts into rest-and-digest (parasympathetic) mode, you may notice improvements in energy levels, stress, and sleep quality after just two sessions. Some sensations, such as deep heaviness, numbness, or light-headedness, are normal and often indicate the treatment is effective.

 

Bruising may occur at the needle site, despite our best efforts to avoid it. If you notice any bruising, please inform your practitioner. You can apply gentle massage, ice, or arnica gel at home to help reduce it.

 

Acupuncture helps correct energy imbalances, which can support detoxification and cleanse accumulated toxins. In some cases, clients may experience mild worsening of symptoms, such as increased urination, fatigue, temporary skin flare-ups, headaches, or nausea. These effects are usually short-lived and part of the healing process.

 

Some clients also report emotional releases (e.g., crying or feeling more sentimental) during or after treatments. These emotional responses are normal and indicate the treatment is addressing deeper issues. It’s important to be mindful of these emotions—whether positive or negative—as they are part of the body’s natural healing process.

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• Are Acupuncture Treatments Safe During Pregnancy? 

 

When performed by a licensed and trained practitioner, acupuncture is considered safe for people of all ages, including children, adults, and the elderly, as well as during pre-pregnancy and pregnancy.

 

Adapting to new treatments can sometimes feel confusing or frustrating. However, recent studies show that acupuncture during pregnancy is generally safe.

 

Always consult with your doctor before seeking acupuncture treatment during pregnancy or postpartum, regardless of the trimester. Additionally, ensure that your acupuncturist is licensed and properly trained according to your state’s regulations.

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