How many treatments
will I need?
The number of treatments will vary from
person to person. Some people experience immediate relief,
others may take months, even years to achieve results.
Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than
acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant
changes.
Treatment frequency depends upon a variety
of factors: the severity of duration of the problem,
constitution, and the quality and quantity of Qi. An
acupuncturist may suggest anywhere from one or two treatments
per week, or monthly visits for health maintenance,
seasonal “tune-ups,” or prevention.
What can I expect?
During the initial exam a full health
history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding
symptoms, health and life-style. An acupuncturist may
also check pulses, the tongue, and conduct an appropriate
physical exam. The information is then organized in
order to create a complete, comprehensive and accurate
diagnosis. After the interview process, you may receive
an acupuncture treatment. Visits range from 30-90 minutes.
What should I expect during treatment?
Where the acupuncture needle has been
inserted, you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness,
tingling, or dull ache. Sometimes people experience
a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the
needle. This is called the “Qi” sensation.
All these reactions are good and a sign that the treatment
is working. Afterward you may feel energized or a deep
sense of relaxation and well-being.
How should I prepare?
• Come with any questions you
may have, we’re here to help you.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy
access to acupuncture points.
• Don’t eat large meals just before or
after the visit.
• Refrain from overexertion, drugs, or alcohol
for up to 6 hours after the visit.
• Avoid stressful situations. Make time to relax
and be sure to get plenty of rest.
• Between visits, take notes of any changes
that may have occurred, i.e., the alleviation of pain,
or pain moving to other areas, changes in the frequency
and type of problem(s).
Do the needles hurt?
The sensation caused by an acupuncture
needle varies. Some people feel a little pain as the
needles are inserted, but most people feel no pain at
all. The needles are tiny, just a little larger than
a cat’s whisker or a human hair.
How deep do they go?
The depth of the insertion varies. For
example, your acupuncturist will use a needling technique
that is different in fleshier areas, such as your buttocks.
Typically, needles are inserted at depths ranging between
1/8” 1 ½” deep.
Why do they want to feel my pulses?
There are 12 pulse positions on each wrist
that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position
corresponds to a specific organ and meridian. They will
be looking for 27 individual qualities that reflect
overall health. If there are any imbalances, they may
appear in the pulse.
Why do they want to look at my tongue?
The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects
the general health of the organs and meridians. They
will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on
the tongue.
How safe is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an
all natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects,
except feelings of relaxation and well-being. There
is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles
because they are sterile, used once, and this disposed
of.
Is acupuncture safe for children?
Yes! In some instances children actually
respond more quickly than adults. If your child has
an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage
the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure.
What type of schooling do acupuncturists
receive?
Today, acupuncturists receive 3 to 4 years
of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at
nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must
pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice
in every state.
What is Qi and how does it move?
At the core of this ancient medicine, is the philosophy
that Qi, (pronounced “chee”) or Life Energy,
flows throughout the body. Qi animates the body and
protects it from illness, pain and disease. A person’s
health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance
of Qi.
Qi circulates through specific pathways called Meridians.
There are 14 meridian pathways throughout the body.
Each is connected to specific organs and glands. Meridian
pathways are like rivers. Where a river flows, it transports
life-giving water that nourishes the land, plants and
people. Like rivers, meridian pathways transport life-giving
Qi to nourish and energize every cell, organ, gland,
tissue and muscle.
When Qi flows freely throughout the body, one enjoys
good physical, mental and emotional well-being. An obstruction
of Qi anywhere in the body is like a dam, backing up
in one area, and restricting it in others. Restricting
the flow affects the nourishment required by the body
in order to function optimally.
What can affect Qi?
Many things influence the quality, quantity and balance
of Qi. Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of
exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, diet, accidents,
or excessive activity can lead to a blockage or imbalance
of Qi.
Normally when this occurs, the body naturally bounces
back. Returning to a balanced state of health and well-being.
When the disruption to Qi is prolonged, excessive, or
if the body is in a weakened state, illness, pain, or
disease can set in. |
