Acupuncture is the insertion of very thin, sterile, disposable stainless steel needles into points on the body to treat different symptoms of disease. A Licensed Acupuncturist uses acupuncture to treat any kind of pain or stress-related illnesses, as well as digestive diseases, neurological symptoms, menopause symptoms and menstrual problems. It is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which also uses herbal medicine and bodywork to treat illness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why needle my hands when my back hurts?
Many patients are surprised when their acupuncturist needles areas away from their symptoms.
Acupuncture is based on the theory that all parts of the body are interconnected. Effective treatment usually uses points around the affected area, but other points are used as well. There are even times when the best treatment does not use any points near the affected area!
How Long Until I Feel Better?
Typically, patients will show some improvement in their condition after about five treatments. While some people feel an immediate improvement, others need up to ten treatments before they begin to improve. Regular treatments are needed to see steady improvement, especially for chronic condition..
Once improvement has begun, you can begin to taper off treatments. Most acupuncturists recommend coming in monthly, or at the change of seasons to help your body maintain its healthy pattern.
Do the Needles Hurt?
The most common feeling during needling is of pressure or distention around a point. A dull ache is also possible. Acupuncture is never as uncomfortable as an injection at a doctor’s office.
Some people feel like they are floating, or the area needled feels warmer or colder than the rest of the body. Many patients fall asleep during treatment.
If you are very sensitive, or do not want to be needled for any reason, there are other options available. Magnetic pellets (which do not break the skin) on points in your ear or on your hands can be used instead of needles. Acupressure, and herbal therapy are other “needle-free” treatment options.
Teresa Y Green 