Frequently Asked Questions
How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture works by using thin, sterile, one-time use needles to stimulate specific points on the body. From a Western medicine perspective acupuncture works by stimulating neurohormonal pathways. Most acupuncture points tend to sit close to places where there are high concentrations of nerve endings and can thus stimulate the body to regulate hormones, pain and stimulate the body to heal itself. From a Chinese Medicine perspective there are pathways or “Meridians” through which “Qi” or energy flows. When Qi becomes blocked the system can become imbalanced in the vital energies of Yin and Yang and affect our bodies physically, mentally and emotionally. Acupuncture works to rebalance these meridians to increase health and prevent disease.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
When done correctly acupuncture shouldn’t hurt. However, many patients experience other sensations which are conducive to effective treatment. Many people feel sensations such as heaviness, a dull ache, tingling, rushing sensations or warmth. When treating pain conditions we may use trigger point or motor point needling. With these treatments the desired response is for the muscle to spasm and then release. Usually this will feel strange but should be relatively painless.
What can Acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture can treat many conditions, and for thousands of years has been utilized to treat any ailments the body presents. Currently acupuncture is being utilized with great success to treat pain and musculoskeletal conditions, but it can also be useful in treating indigestion, allergies, headaches, stress and anxiety. The World Health Organization currently has a list of 31 different conditions acupuncture is useful for treating.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
To receive acupuncture you do not need a referral from your doctor. However, if you are coming in to be treated for undiagnosed conditions you should see your doctor first to determine diagnosis. If you refuse to be seen by your PCP for undiagnosed conditions, you can still be seen but will be required to sign a waiver to be treated by us. Some private insurance companies do require a referral from your doctor so make sure to check with your insurance first.
What is Community Acupuncture?
Community acupuncture is acupuncture done in a communal space. Often treatments are given on recliner chairs or massage tables in a large open space during set times of the week. This allows the practitioner to treat multiple people in the same space and help reduce costs for everyone. We offer sliding scale pricing with no income verification requirements. Ideally with the offering of community acupuncture patients will be able to get acupuncture more often and achieve their health goals faster. At our clinic we make sure you have access to privately communicate your health needs to the practitioner before coming into the communal space to protect your health privacy
How many treatments will I need?
That depends on the individual and the nature of the problem we will be treating. Generally the more chronic the condition the longer the treatment process will take to see results. Acute issues can generally be resolved in a few treatments.
What should I do before getting acupuncture?
It is advised that you eat a small meal half an hour to an hour before treatment. Also please make sure to wear loose, comfortable clothing for the treatment which will allow access to arms and legs.
Can I receive acupuncture while pregnant?
Yes, while there are some points which have contraindications, many are still completely safe during pregnancy. Acupuncture can be a useful treatment option for morning sickness, fatigue or physical pain which may accompany your changing body.
What should I do after a treatment?
We advise most patients to try to take it easy after an acupuncture treatment. As the body can be quite relaxed and musculature can be looser we advise people to avoid strenuous exercise after treatment to avoid injury and to give your body time to recover. We also advise people to hydrate after acupuncture treatments.