What should I expect?
Most people are pleasantly surprised by the experience of an acupuncture treatment, which often produces a profound level of relaxation. Many patients enjoy a restful nap while on the table. Afterwards, most people report a calm feeling of vitality and an improved sense of well-being.
Does it hurt?
Most people are surprised and relieved to learn that acupuncture needles are extremely thin and completely unlike the hypodermic needles
they have experienced at their doctor's office. Acupuncture is not especially painful, nor is it entirely painless. Everyone can describe differently the sensation felt. Some say it feels like a dull ache; others describe a warm tingly feeling. This is normal and beneficial. Once the needles are set, the sensation fades, and is most often not felt for the remainder of the
treatment. Most people describe a deep and lasting relaxation afterwards.
Are the needles safe?
Absolutely! Only sterile, single-use disposable needles are used. Patients are absolutely assured that there is no transmission of communicable disease from patient to patient.
Do I have to be sick to benefit from acupuncture?
Absolutely not! In recent years more and more people have discovered that it is much easier, safer and cost effective to maintain health than it is to recover it once it's lost. Because of their ability to strengthen and nourish proper functioning in the body acupuncture and herbal medicine can be an important addition to any health program. Patients are advised to come in for monthly or quarterly "tune-ups" as part of their health maintenance routine.
How frequently do I need to come for treatment?
The frequency of treatments varies with each individual. Most new patients begin treatment with weekly sessions lasting one hour each. During this time, significant signs of progress will likely appear. As patients experience improvement in their condition, treatments may be extended to every other week, every three weeks, monthly and eventually seasonally.
How does acupuncture work?
Although there are aspects of Chinese medicine that correlate with western medicine, its efficacy cannot be fully explained using the language of bioscience. The general idea behind acupuncture is to rebalance the body’s energy system (qi). The acupuncture points are like entryways into this system, lying on pathways called channels, which can be thought of as invisible streams that carry qi throughout the body.
How does one choose an acupuncturist?
With acupuncture increasing in popularity, there is an advent of physicians receiving certification with only 350 hours of training. In contrast, a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.) must complete thousands of hours of training in Chinese medicine, including clinical internships, and pass a national examination to be fully licensed by New York State.
Should I visit my primary healthcare provider while I am seeing an acupuncturist?
In many cases, this is completely appropriate. The best healthcare is one that combines the strengths of both medicines. They best work together rather than in opposition because, in cooperation, they help and enhance the healing process.
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