What is Treatment like!
Extremely fine, hair-thin, flexible, single-use sterilized disposable needles are placed at specific acupuncture points on the body. When the needles are inserted you may experience a sensation of tingling or warmth. People are surprised to find that treatments are actually quite relaxing. The length and frequency of a treatment may vary for each individual and will be determined by your Acupuncturist or Doctor of Oriental Medicine. Acupuncture treatments are scheduled according to the nature of your condition. As you improve, fewer visits are required. Discuss your treatment plan with your acupuncturist, since each individual is different.
Is it for you?
Oriental Medicine is used not only for pain management, but also as a holistic system of health care and health maintenance. Athletes use Oriental Medicine to achieve optimal performance levels. Cancer patients are treated for the side effects of chemotherapy to enhance their quality of life. Detoxification treatments have been proven to help those with chemical and/or substance dependency
What Will My Acupuncturist do?
During the initial exam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms, health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment. Visits with your acupuncturist may last from thirty to ninety minutes.
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 or 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 on a variety of facts: your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem and the quality or quantity of your Qi. An acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week, or monthly visits for health maintenance and seasonal “tune ups”.
How safe is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects just feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.