Commonly Asked Questions
Does acupuncture hurt?
In most cases, No. Most points are barely felt and once the needle is in place you feel no pain at all. Tingling, numbness, warmth and tightness are common needling sensations that indicate that the energy is moving in the channels and meridians.
How big are the needles?
The needles are 0.22mm thick, 34 gauge needles that are so thin they are flexible. They are sterile, made of stainless steel, and are used only once before being discarded.
How long does an acupuncture visit take?
You can expect your first treatment to take 1-1.5 hours. During this time we will sit down and discuss any health concerns you may have and review your health history. Eastern medicine works by finding and correcting the disharmony in your body and breaking up stagnation. During our first visit, we will determine what is out of harmony in your body and what can be done to bring you systems back into balance.
After your first treatment, sessions will last about 45 minutes to an hour.
How should I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?
Before you come for treatment, try to eat something so you will not be hungry while on the table. If possible, do not eat or drink anything which will dye your tongue an artificial color. Also the morning of your appointment please do not brush your tongue, as the tongue coating is an important part of the diagnostic process.
What should I do during the treatment?
Relax! If you experience any discomfort, let your acupuncturist know. Small adjustments will be made to ensure that you are able to relax in complete comfort; if necessary, the needle will be removed.
& Pain Care Center
How many treatments will I need?
Acute issues, that have not bothered you for long, are usually resolved quickly; 1-4 sessions may alleviate the problem completely. Chronic conditions will usually take longer to go away completely, but you will usually experience relief in just one treatment! At the beginning, multiple sessions per week are commonly indicated, decreasing progressively as your body responds to treatment.
Have Any Other Questions?
Please feel free to email or call, we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
