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FAQ for Acupuncture
1. DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?
Acupuncture treatment consists of insertion of fine needles and so is not usually found to be painful. There
is little sensitivity to the insertion of acupuncture needles. One reason is that they are much finer than those
used for injections and blood tests - 25 to 50 times thinner than hypodermic needles - so thin that several
acupuncture needles can fit into the middle of a hypodermic needle.
The actual insertion is done very quickly. While some feel nothing at all, others experience a brief moment of
discomfort, sometimes followed by a mild sensation of cramping, tingling, heaviness, numbness or electric
sensation either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridian. This sensation is
desirable and known as "attaining Qi". These sensations are usually mild and subside quickly after
insertion.
Most people find acupuncture sessions very relaxing, and some even fall asleep during sessions.
2. ARE THE NEEDLES STERILE? ARE NEEDLES REUSED?
Licensed acupuncturists are required to be certified in Clean Needle Techniques and use sterilized,
individually packaged, disposable needles. We never reuse needles!
3. CAN ACUPUNCTURE BE DANGEROUS?
In the hands of a skilled practitioner, Acupuncture is perfectly safe. Cautions are recommended when
working around major organs and thin patients short needles are used to avoid deep penetration. During
pregnancy certain points are avoided. Always ensure you have a Qualified Acupuncturist belonging to a
Registered Acupuncturist Council.
4. HOW DEEP DO THE NEEDLES GO?
Acupuncture points are located on or close to the skin's surface, but needles can be inserted from 1/16 to a
few inches deep. The depth of insertion depends on the nature of the location and condition being
addressed, the patients' size, age, and constitution, as well as the acupuncturist's style and training.
5. WHO CAN RECEIVE ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENTS?
Acupuncture and TCM is for almost everyone. The best thing is that you do not have to be sick to benefit. It is
an effective form of preventive medicine because it helps detect and treat energy imbalances before they
lead to disease.
It can also treat specific disorders to relieve symptoms and help reduce complications and recurrence or
can be used for the maintenance treatment of a long term problem, to help reduce the need for medication
and surgery.
- Does acupuncture hurt?
- Are the needles sterile? Are needles reused?
- Can acupuncture be dangerous?
- How deep do the needles go?
- Who can receive acupuncture treatments?
- How many treatments do I need?
- How long does a treatment take?
- What will happen on my first visit?
- What do I wear for my acupuncture treatment?
- What should I do before treatment?
- What reaction may happen after treatment?
- What should I do after a session?
- Should I tell my doctor?
- My doctor does not believe in acupuncture. Do I have to believe in order to obtain results?
- Will acupuncture interfere with my medication?
- Should I continue with my prescribed medication while receiving acupuncture?
- Can acupuncture be combined with other therapies?
- What are some other Oriental Medicine techniques besides needle insertion?
1. DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?
Acupuncture treatment consists of insertion of fine needles and so is not usually found to be painful. There
is little sensitivity to the insertion of acupuncture needles. One reason is that they are much finer than those
used for injections and blood tests - 25 to 50 times thinner than hypodermic needles - so thin that several
acupuncture needles can fit into the middle of a hypodermic needle.
The actual insertion is done very quickly. While some feel nothing at all, others experience a brief moment of
discomfort, sometimes followed by a mild sensation of cramping, tingling, heaviness, numbness or electric
sensation either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridian. This sensation is
desirable and known as "attaining Qi". These sensations are usually mild and subside quickly after
insertion.
Most people find acupuncture sessions very relaxing, and some even fall asleep during sessions.
2. ARE THE NEEDLES STERILE? ARE NEEDLES REUSED?
Licensed acupuncturists are required to be certified in Clean Needle Techniques and use sterilized,
individually packaged, disposable needles. We never reuse needles!
3. CAN ACUPUNCTURE BE DANGEROUS?
In the hands of a skilled practitioner, Acupuncture is perfectly safe. Cautions are recommended when
working around major organs and thin patients short needles are used to avoid deep penetration. During
pregnancy certain points are avoided. Always ensure you have a Qualified Acupuncturist belonging to a
Registered Acupuncturist Council.
4. HOW DEEP DO THE NEEDLES GO?
Acupuncture points are located on or close to the skin's surface, but needles can be inserted from 1/16 to a
few inches deep. The depth of insertion depends on the nature of the location and condition being
addressed, the patients' size, age, and constitution, as well as the acupuncturist's style and training.
5. WHO CAN RECEIVE ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENTS?
Acupuncture and TCM is for almost everyone. The best thing is that you do not have to be sick to benefit. It is
an effective form of preventive medicine because it helps detect and treat energy imbalances before they
lead to disease.
It can also treat specific disorders to relieve symptoms and help reduce complications and recurrence or
can be used for the maintenance treatment of a long term problem, to help reduce the need for medication
and surgery.
Laughing Buddha BOSTON
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SHORTCUT to Questions
Go to questions 1 - 4: about acupuncture
Go to questions 5 - 10: about treatments
Go to questions 11 - 12: after treatments
Go to questions 13 - 16: doctor/medications
Go to questions 17 - 18: other
Go to questions 1 - 4: about acupuncture
Go to questions 5 - 10: about treatments
Go to questions 11 - 12: after treatments
Go to questions 13 - 16: doctor/medications
Go to questions 17 - 18: other
6. HOW MANY TREATMENTS DO I NEED?
The older the illness the longer the patient will need treatments.
Length, number and frequency of sessions vary. Some patients respond quicker than others. Chronic conditions or severe ailments may
require a series of several sessions to achieve the maximum benefit. Appointments are scheduled further and further apart after the optimal
response has been achieved. The goal is to receive acupuncture treatments to tune up and maintain optimum health rather than “fixing”
problems.
7. HOW LONG DOES A TREATMENT TAKE?
Diagnostic procedure and treatment normally last for one hour.
8. WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON MY FIRST VISIT?
We start by taking a case history with you, which is a comprehensive background interview about your health issues and any information
that may be relevant to your condition. During this process, the practitioner will examine also your tongue color and its appearance, check
your pulse and palpate your abdomen. This examination will provide the practitioner with a better understanding on how your whole body is
functioning. Following the intake you will either sit or lie down and relax while we apply acupuncture.
Be aware that sometimes needles will not be inserted by the problem zone but rather on distal points. Example: You may come in with a
headache but needles will be inserted on your feet or hands only! Depending on the case, the practitioner may choose to add some
adjunctive therapies to achieve optimum benefits. Click here for more information on “What are some other Oriental Medicine techniques
besides needle insertion?”
9. WHAT DO I WEAR FOR MY ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT?
Be aware that the acupuncturist may need to access points on your torso, arms and legs. Wear comfortable, loose clothing, and take off any
metallic jewelry, watches, or earrings. Makeup and nail polish should be minimized or eliminated. Please also avoid the use of perfumes,
colognes or strongly scented cosmetics.
10. WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE TREATMENT?
Try to avoid the following:
It also helps to be in a calm state. Try to arrive 5 or 10 minutes before your appointment to give yourself a chance to relax.
11. WHAT REACTION MAY HAPPEN AFTER TREATMENT?
Patients normally feel relaxed and calm. You may feel tired or drowsy for a few hours if the experience is particularly strong. You may also
experience a short-term flair-up of symptoms in the healing process.
12. WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER A SESSION?
It is often helpful to sit quietly and relax following sessions. A gentle walk or very mild exercise can also be helpful. Avoid big meals,
vigorous exercise, alcohol and stressful situations.
13. SHOULD I TELL MY DOCTOR?
If you are receiving treatment from your doctor, then it makes sense to tell him/her about your intention to have acupuncture. At the same
time, you should always inform your acupuncturist of any treatments you are receiving, such as medications, as this may affect your
response to the acupuncture treatment.
14. MY DOCTOR DOES NOT BELIEVE IN ACUPUNCTURE. DO I HAVE TO BELIEVE IN ORDER TO OBTAIN RESULTS?
No. In fact, acupuncture works very well for horses, dogs and cats, most of whom probably don't "believe" in acupuncture either. It is always
beneficial to have confidence in your practitioner, but faith in a particular technique is not necessary to obtain results.
15. WILL ACUPUNCTURE INTERFERE WITH MY MEDICATION?
The answer is NO. You may find your medication working more efficiently as Acupuncture moves blockages and balances the energetic
pathways. With your Doctor's guidance you may find you will be able to cut down dosage of medication or even completely come off it as the
body heals itself and restores balance.
16. SHOULD I CONTINUE WITH MY PRESCRIBED MEDICATION WHILE RECEIVING ACUPUNCTURE?
Yes, at least until you have thoroughly discussed your options with your doctor or the practitioner who prescribed the medication. Many
people seek the help of an acupuncturist because of dissatisfaction with drug treatment - whether it does not seem to be working or there
are unacceptable side effects. However, NEVER stop taking any medication without professional guidance.
17. CAN ACUPUNCTURE BE COMBINED WITH OTHER THERAPIES?
Yes, acupuncture can be performed alongside other holistic treatments, and at the same time as Western medical treatment. You should
inform each practitioner if you are having any other treatments.
18. WHAT ARE SOME OTHER ORIENTAL MEDICINE TECHNIQUES BESIDES NEEDLE INSERTION?
Below are a few techniques typically used in conjunction with acupuncture to enhance its effect:
The older the illness the longer the patient will need treatments.
Length, number and frequency of sessions vary. Some patients respond quicker than others. Chronic conditions or severe ailments may
require a series of several sessions to achieve the maximum benefit. Appointments are scheduled further and further apart after the optimal
response has been achieved. The goal is to receive acupuncture treatments to tune up and maintain optimum health rather than “fixing”
problems.
7. HOW LONG DOES A TREATMENT TAKE?
Diagnostic procedure and treatment normally last for one hour.
8. WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON MY FIRST VISIT?
We start by taking a case history with you, which is a comprehensive background interview about your health issues and any information
that may be relevant to your condition. During this process, the practitioner will examine also your tongue color and its appearance, check
your pulse and palpate your abdomen. This examination will provide the practitioner with a better understanding on how your whole body is
functioning. Following the intake you will either sit or lie down and relax while we apply acupuncture.
Be aware that sometimes needles will not be inserted by the problem zone but rather on distal points. Example: You may come in with a
headache but needles will be inserted on your feet or hands only! Depending on the case, the practitioner may choose to add some
adjunctive therapies to achieve optimum benefits. Click here for more information on “What are some other Oriental Medicine techniques
besides needle insertion?”
9. WHAT DO I WEAR FOR MY ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT?
Be aware that the acupuncturist may need to access points on your torso, arms and legs. Wear comfortable, loose clothing, and take off any
metallic jewelry, watches, or earrings. Makeup and nail polish should be minimized or eliminated. Please also avoid the use of perfumes,
colognes or strongly scented cosmetics.
10. WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE TREATMENT?
Try to avoid the following:
- Eating a big meal within one hour of your appointment or an empty stomach
- Alcohol, tobacco, food or drinks that color your tongue (such as coffee or candies) immediately prior to treatment or just following a
treatment - Vigorous exercise or sexual activity within the hour before treatment
It also helps to be in a calm state. Try to arrive 5 or 10 minutes before your appointment to give yourself a chance to relax.
11. WHAT REACTION MAY HAPPEN AFTER TREATMENT?
Patients normally feel relaxed and calm. You may feel tired or drowsy for a few hours if the experience is particularly strong. You may also
experience a short-term flair-up of symptoms in the healing process.
12. WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER A SESSION?
It is often helpful to sit quietly and relax following sessions. A gentle walk or very mild exercise can also be helpful. Avoid big meals,
vigorous exercise, alcohol and stressful situations.
13. SHOULD I TELL MY DOCTOR?
If you are receiving treatment from your doctor, then it makes sense to tell him/her about your intention to have acupuncture. At the same
time, you should always inform your acupuncturist of any treatments you are receiving, such as medications, as this may affect your
response to the acupuncture treatment.
14. MY DOCTOR DOES NOT BELIEVE IN ACUPUNCTURE. DO I HAVE TO BELIEVE IN ORDER TO OBTAIN RESULTS?
No. In fact, acupuncture works very well for horses, dogs and cats, most of whom probably don't "believe" in acupuncture either. It is always
beneficial to have confidence in your practitioner, but faith in a particular technique is not necessary to obtain results.
15. WILL ACUPUNCTURE INTERFERE WITH MY MEDICATION?
The answer is NO. You may find your medication working more efficiently as Acupuncture moves blockages and balances the energetic
pathways. With your Doctor's guidance you may find you will be able to cut down dosage of medication or even completely come off it as the
body heals itself and restores balance.
16. SHOULD I CONTINUE WITH MY PRESCRIBED MEDICATION WHILE RECEIVING ACUPUNCTURE?
Yes, at least until you have thoroughly discussed your options with your doctor or the practitioner who prescribed the medication. Many
people seek the help of an acupuncturist because of dissatisfaction with drug treatment - whether it does not seem to be working or there
are unacceptable side effects. However, NEVER stop taking any medication without professional guidance.
17. CAN ACUPUNCTURE BE COMBINED WITH OTHER THERAPIES?
Yes, acupuncture can be performed alongside other holistic treatments, and at the same time as Western medical treatment. You should
inform each practitioner if you are having any other treatments.
18. WHAT ARE SOME OTHER ORIENTAL MEDICINE TECHNIQUES BESIDES NEEDLE INSERTION?
Below are a few techniques typically used in conjunction with acupuncture to enhance its effect:
- Moxibustion (Moxa) is a herb, artemisa vulgaris, used to heat acupoints.
- Auricular Therapy is a way to treat and stimulate the whole system from the ear only by using fine intradermal needles or press balls
on specific ear acupuncture points. The needles are covered in a tape and can be worn after the treatment for 3 to 5 days. - Electro-Acupuncture uses a small electric current in conjunction with a needle for different manipulation of acupoints.
- Cupping stimulates acupuncture points by applying suction through a glass cup that has a partial vacuum. It is the most effective deep
tissue massage available. Cupping can reach down four inches into the body tissue, allowing that tissue to release toxins. It
invigorates stagnated areas in the skin and muscles and is very effective for low backache pain, soft tissue injuries, sciatica and colds. - Tui Na is a form of Chinese body work. It is used in conjunction with acupuncture for a variety of musculo-skeletal and organ-related
issues. - Chinese Herbal Medicine may be an option as part of treatment.
