FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture
How does acupuncture work?
Ancient Chinese medicine practitioners discovered that when a person's body is healthy, their Qi naturally flows along the meridian pathways in the body. When disharmonies are present, the imbalances disrupt the flow and movement of the body's Qi or vital energy. Disharmonies form in the body when people experience various physical and mental stressors.
Acupuncture addresses these disharmonies by inserting and manipulating needles at specific points to correct the imbalances and smooth the flow of Qi in the body. Along with Chinese Herbal Medicine and other modalities, acupuncture restores balance and promotes the body's ability to heal.
Does acupuncture hurt?
No, although the idea of having needles placed in your body may sound painful, acupuncture needle insertion is generally not. The reason why there is minimal, if any, pain with acupuncture is due to the type and size of the needle used. Some people may experience a slight pinch, but it quickly dissipates. Many find that acupuncture is quite relaxing and even end up falling asleep and having an "acunap."
What are the differences between acupuncture and hypodermic needles?Â
Acupuncture needles are solid, filiform (thread-like), and flexible, while hypodermic needles are hollow and rigid. Acupuncture needles also differ tremendously in size compared to hypodermic needles. The average acupuncture needle is 38-34 gauge or thickness. In contrast, hypodermic needles are 18-21 gauge. The higher the gauge, the smaller the diameter. For some perspective, 20 acupuncture needles can fit into the tip of an 18-gauge hypodermic needle!
What will I feel once the needles are inserted?
After needle insertion, some normal sensations one might experience are mild, dull aches, heaviness, warmth, and a sense of movement circulating through the body. We call this needle sensation De Qi, or the arrival of Qi. Some people may not feel anything.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes! Acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education and clinical experience. In addition, we must pass a written and practical exam on Clean Needle Technique. We also create a clean field with each treatment and use sterile, single-use acupuncture needles.
In addition to earning a Master's or Doctorate in Acupuncture, we must pass three comprehensive national board examinations administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
Additional information regarding evidence-based acupuncture and research can be found HERE.
Are there other beneficial treatments besides acupuncture?
Yes, there are modalities that don't require the use of needles, such as:
Herbal Medicine - Learn more HERE
Fire Cupping - Learn more HERE
Gua Sha - Learn more HERE
Tui Na - medical massage that is utilized to direct the movement of Qi, release tension, and calm the mind
​Moxibustion - external herbal therapy implemented by burning Ai Ye (mugwort) over specific acupuncture points and channels to warm the body
How many appointments do I need?
Treatment length can depend on whether the condition is acute or chronic. The treatment time is generally less in cases where the concern is more acute. If the symptoms are chronic and have been ongoing for years, it will generally take time to work through the layers to get to the root of the issue. I often refer to the treatment of chronic issues as similar to peeling back the layers of an onion.
When you begin care at Wellness Integrative Health, we establish a collaborative partnership with you regarding your health, care, and goals. My goal is for you to feel better after your treatments and empowered in your recovery and future health, learning about the connectedness of your spiritual, emotional, and physical health along the way.
Our practice goal is to see a 50%+ reduction in presenting symptoms in the first six treatments. Acupuncture works cumulatively over time, so depending on the severity of your condition, individuals may move to every week or every other week for the next four to six weeks. The end goal is to progress to a monthly or every other month maintenance schedule.
Do you take insurance?
Wellnest Integrative Health does not bill insurance, as coverage varies among providers. ​However, since various insurance companies may reimburse for acupuncture treatments, a 'superbill' will be sent to you after your visit, which you can submit for reimbursement.
I do accept Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), as many allow for acupuncture treatments. It is best to personally verify this before use.
Tips to have a pleasant acupuncture experience.
Come hydrated and stay hydrated. Drinking water will help your muscles relax and flush out any toxins that may be built up in your tissues. Relaxed muscles equals easier insertion and less pain.
Have a light meal before your treatment. Acupuncture can cause a slight drop in blood sugar and blood pressure. Eating a light meal or snack before your treatment can prevent experiencing light-headedness, dizziness, or even fainting.
Avoid or reduce caffeine. Caffeinated beverages or snacks stimulate your nervous system and increase your heart rate and feelings of anxiety. Reducing this before treatment helps your body relax for needle insertion.
Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Comfort is important during treatment and helps induce a relaxed state. Depending on the conditions we are working on, you will be lying on a massage table, either face-up or down. We often use distal points on the legs and arms as part of our treatment protocols, and it is important to have easy access to the lower legs up to the knees and lower arms from the hands to the elbows.
Approach your treatment with an open mind. Trying new experiences can be intimidating, but maintaining an open mind can improve the experience and outcome of the treatment. Always feel free to be open and honestly share any apprehensions or anxiety that you might be feeling with your practitioner as they arise.
Questions? Get in Touch.
For more information regarding
Wellnest Integrative Health fill out the form and we will be in contact within a few days. Your email is never shared.
Thank you!
©2023 by Wellnest Integrative Health