Frequently Asked Questions

What are the needles like? Do they hurt?

Acupuncture needles are very thin, solid and made of stainless steel. The point is smooth not hollow with cutting edges like a hypodermic. Most patients feel only a slight pinch when the needles are inserted. Some patients feel no pain at all. Once the needles are in place, there is no pain. The needles are sterile and disposed after one use.

 
What should I expect during a treatment session?

The initial visit may take up to 1-1/2 hours and includes an office visit and treatment. On subsequent treatment sessions, expect to be at the office approximately 45 minutes. The needles stay in the body approximately 25-30 minutes. The average number of needles inserted is 10-15, but there may be more or less. A heat lamp may be utilized to augment the treatment. Electric stimulation also may be used to encourage quicker results. You will be lying on a comfortable table or sitting in a chair and relaxing music will be playing. Most people feel very relaxed and some actually fall asleep during treatment.

 
How many treatments will I need?

The number of sessions differs from person to person depending on your issues. In the beginning twice weekly visits are usually recommended. Acupuncture works with the accumulation of treatments. It is extremely important to have an adequate amount of treatments in the beginning to obtain the best results and produce a lasting effect. A trial of 8-10 treatments over the course of one month is advised. As the problem resolves, the frequency of visits decreases to weekly. If the patient holds the treatment then sessions stretch to every two, three then four weeks. At this point, the patient usually knows when they need to come in for a maintenance treatment. If a patient is not ill but wants a general toning treatment, four sessions a year are recommended.

 
Are there side effects from treatment?

It is quite common with the first couple sessions to have a deep relaxation following treatment. On rare occasions, the original symptoms may worsen for a day or two. If this happens it is an indication that acupuncture is starting to work and the qi (energy) is moving.

 
Can acupuncture be performed if you are on Coumadin?

Yes, acupuncture can be safely performed when a patient is on blood thinners, as long as the medication is considered under control by the prescribing physician.

 
What is Facial rejuvenation acupuncture?

Super fine acupuncture needles are placed in areas of wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. The needles rejuvenate energy circulation in the facial tissues by stimulating collagen synthesis. This helps fill in the wrinkles and plump the skin. There is virtually no pain, on a rare occasion some bruising may occur. The American Cosmetic Acupuncture Association recommends an initial treatment of ten sessions, twice a week, followed by maintenance sessions on an individual basis. Noticeable results seen in usually 7-8 sessions.

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