Questions:

1. what is acupuncture?
2. how does acupuncture work?
3. does it hurt?
4. will the needles make me bleed?
5. are there any side effects?
6. what kind of needles are used?
7. what do the letters after your name mean?
8. what should i do to prepare for an appointment?

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is just one tool used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, a complete medical system that developed in China over 2000 years ago. Other tools include cupping, moxibustion, herbs, Tui Na massage, and nutritional and lifestyle advice. Chinese Medicine can improve many types of diseases, regardless of whether those diseases are physical, mental or emotional. In most cases, acupuncture or other Chinese Medicine treatments can help.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture works by bringing the body, mind and emotions into balance. When we are in balance, we are healthy; we sleep well, we have energy, our injuries heal quickly and we feel good most of the time. In Chinese Medicine theory, pathways called meridians connect various parts of the body. Energy flows through these meridians just as blood moves through veins and arteries. While pain or other symptoms might occur in one part of the body, the cause of the problem or illness may be in another part of the body. In short, if the energy is not flowing correctly, illness results. Acupuncture works by adjusting the way this energy flows through the body.

At the beginning of your appointment, the acupuncturist will ask a few questions about your health, look at your tongue and take your pulse on both arms. Next, your acupuncturist will identify a few acu-points for your treatment. The acupuncturist will gently insert very thin needles (the thickness of a hair) just under the skin and twirl them softly until you feel a tingling sensation. Once all the needles are in place, you just sit (or lie down) and relax for 20-45 minutes depending on the type of treatment you are receiving. At the end of the treatment, the acupuncturist will remove all the needles and let you rest for a few minutes before ending the session. The acupuncturist may also suggest taking Chinese herbs or receiving additional treatments to assist in your healing

Does it Hurt?

Yes and No. You may feel a slight prick when the needles are inserted. The sensation is like a tingling pressure. Once the needles are inserted, you do not feel them.

Will the needles make me bleed?

Bleeding is possible but unlikely. If a needle draws blood it is usually only a tiny speck.

Are there any side effects?

Possibly, but they are uncommon and mild. Mild side effects include pain or discomfort during treatment, bleeding, nausea, and lightheadedness. Serious or severe side effects include fainting, breakage of the needle and puncture of internal organs. A six-year long Japanese study of over 65,000 patient visits to an acupuncture clinic showed only 94 reports of side effects. None of the reported side effects were serious or severe.

What kind of needles are used?

The needles are very thin and made of stainless steel. They are sterile and are used only once.

What do the letters after your name mean?

L.Ac. indicates Licensed Acupuncturist. In California, acupuncturists must attend school for 4 years after college and take a state test to become a Licensed Acupuncturist. People who are not L.Ac.’s or medical doctors cannot legally perform acupuncture in California.

What should I do to prepare for an acupuncture appointment?

We suggest the following tips:

• Eating: It is important to eat a meal or snack about one hour before treatment in order to enhance the benefits of treatment and avoid any side effects.
• Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to pull above the elbow and the knee.
• Physical Activity: Avoid strenuous physical activity for one hour before and after treatment.
• Other Medications And Supplements: Be prepared to discuss any medications or dietary supplements you are currently taking so the acupuncturist can tailor your treatment to you.