Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Acupuncture needles are thread-like and when inserted produce little or no pain at all. A patient may experience a tingling, heavy or warm sensation. Many patients are amazed at how relaxed they feel during a treatment.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture is regulated and licensed in every state. Needles are individually packaged, pre-sterilized and disposed of after each use. There are minimal side effects. Some patients may experience bruising or slight light headedness which can be easily remedied by eating or rest.
What is an appointment like?
As with most health care practitioners, your first begins by taking a full health history. I will ask many questions concerning your symptoms, lifestyle and diet. I will also preform a physical exam including a pulse and tongue diagnosis. After I gather sufficient information, I will create an individualized treatment plan. You will receive acupuncture on this initial visit. The needles will be left in for about 20-30 minutes. We will also discuss a possible herbs or supplements that may accentuate your healing process. This initial exam will take up to 1.5 hours. Subsequent visits, including a follow-up exam and acupuncture treatment will last up to 1 hour.
How often should I come...for how long?
The number of treatments vary from patient to patient and will depend upon the nature of your condition and your overall constitution. For acute ailments, you should see some improvement within three visits and more chronic conditions often require a longer course of treatments.
Can acupuncture help with stress?
Acupuncturists see that today's hectic life contributes to a wide range of chronic illnesses and conditions. Constant stress affects the Qi in the body and the acupuncturist's job is to bring the Qi back in balance and keep it that way.
Does acupuncture and herbs interfere with the prescription drugs I am taking?
Acupuncture and herbs do not interfere with western drugs. However, please inform me of all prescription and non-prescription medications you are currently taking as it may reflect your response to the treatment.