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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

  • Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system.
  • Practitioners of Acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy.
  • An acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on the body. This activates the body's Qi and promotes natural healing.
  • It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.

How safe is Acupuncture?

  • It is extremely safe.
  • It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy

What is Qi?

  • Qi (pronounced "chee") is 'Life Energy' that flows throughout the body.
  • Qi is at the core of ancient medicine philosophy and helps animate the body to protect it from illness, pain and disease.
  • A person's health is influenced by the quality, quantity, and balanced of Qi.
  • Qi circulates through specific pathways called meridians in the body.

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 may also check your pulses, tongue and 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.
  • Visits with you acupuncturist may last 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, called "Qi sensation."
  • All these reactions are good and a sign that the treatment is working.
  • After the treatment, you may feel energized or may experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.

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.
  • Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks, and coating on your tongue.

Why do you want to feel my pulses?

  • There are 12 pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate.
  • Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ.
  • Your acupuncturist will be looking for 27 indivudual qualities that reflect overall health.
  • If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.