FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

“DOES IT HURT?”

Generally,  it does not hurt. Acupuncture needles are solid, very thin, flexible, and not much thicker than a strand of human hair. Although people have varying degrees of sensitivity, the more common sensations felt are compared to that of plucking hair or the sensation of a mosquito bite. Many often find themselves in such a relaxed state during an acupuncture treatment, they fall asleep through the process.

“HOW LONG DOES EACH TREATMENT LAST?”

On your first visit, we perform a thorough examination of your health history, lifestyle, current health concerns, as well as perform orthopedic physical examination and tongue and pulse examination. This is also the time we discuss a treatment plan specifically tailored to you which may also involve herbal medication and lifestyle and dietary modifications. Please allow 90 minutes on your initial visit and 45-60 minutes on follow-up visits. Acupuncture needles are generally retained on the body for 15-30 minutes in each session.

“WHAT IS AN ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT LIKE?”

Depending on your presenting health concern, acupuncture needles will be inserted in strategic points on your body and retained for 15-30 minutes. Infrared light therapy or moxibustion may also be used at this time, as well as adjunct therapeutic methods such as Tui Na or Qi Gong breathing to enhance the efficacy of the treatment. Most people find treatments very comfortable and relaxing.