Acupuncture Benefits

What is Acupuncture and how does it work?

Traditional Chinese theory explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force — known as qi (pronounced chee) — believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will re-balance.

In contrast, many Western practitioners view the acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. This stimulation appears to boost the activity of your body's natural painkillers and increase blood flow.

Is it safe?

Acupuncture is a safe, natural, effective form of healing with no side-effects. Acupuncture treatments are drug-free so there is no risk of developing drug dependencies. Only pre-sterilized, disposable needles are used. However, you should always inform me of any pre-existing conditions, current medications, and pregnancy. I will evaluate your specific medical history to ensure the best treatment plan for you.

Initial Visit

Your first session will begin with a complete health history, physical examination, review of systems in addition to a Chinese examination of the tongue and pulses. Getting to know you, gathering a comprehensive health history, and understanding your health concerns and goals is the main focus of this first visit. You will receive a full acupuncture treatment and your acupuncturist will create a treatment plan based on this session. The first treatment is typically 90 minutes.

How many treatments will I need?

Each person is unique and requires an individualized treatment plan. The length of treatment depends on the type, severity, and duration of the condition. Usually within 5 to 6 treatments the patient experiences significant improvement.

Typical treatment session

Each acupuncture session is approximately 45 - 60 minutes in length. After you have checked in, you are escorted to your room where your symptoms and progress are assessed. Assessment and diagnosis is done through a series of questions, and by checking your pulse and tongue. In Chinese medicine the pulse and tongue give a lot of information about what is going on internally. After assessment, the ideal treatment protocol will be followed by inserting hair-thin needles into various areas of the body. You rest for 25 - 30 minutes to allow the acupuncture to take effect.

Does it hurt?

Acupuncture is performed using hair-thin needles, only 1/10 the thickness of hypodermic needles, so treatments are relatively painless. The majority of people experience no pain upon the insertion of needles. A small population may feel a slight pricking sensation or soreness which typically only lasts for a few seconds when it does occur. During the treatment, you may also experience a dull achy sensation. This is normal and is caused by energy flow changes in your body.

How to prepare for treatment?

• Always eat an appropriate amount of food and be well hydrated before a treatment.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing.

What training is required?

The California Board of Medical Quality Assurance has licensed acupuncturists as primary health care providers since 1976. In California, four years of formal training is required to receive a Master’s of Traditional Oriental Medicine (M.T.O.M.). An acupuncturist must pass a state exam to obtain a license (L.Ac.) and take continuing education courses to maintain the license.