Acupuncture
& Traditional Chinese Medicine
What is Acupuncture, and Who Can Benefit?
Acupuncture is a modern form of treatment based on ancient Chinese healing practices. In acupuncture, thin needles are inserted into the skin at specific points, which release biochemicals in certain areas of the body to promote healing, pain relief, and wellness.
Almost anyone can benefit from regular acupuncture sessions, but most people book acupuncture treatments for specific reasons. They may be experiencing issues like insomnia, tension and stress, digestive issues, or suffering from a chronic condition or illness. In many cases, acupuncture can help alleviate symptoms and work alongside a medical treatment plan.
Recent studies have shown that acupuncture is particularly useful in treating pain and nausea. It can be extremely beneficial to cancer patients, helping them alleviate symptoms and side effects of treatments like chemotherapy.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
This is one of the most commonly asked questions for clients who have never tried acupuncture before.
The short answer is no; acupuncture typically doesn’t cause more than a dull aching or tingling sensation. A professional acupuncturist is trained to quickly insert and remove the needles in a way that doesn’t cause pain.
How to Prepare for Your First Appointment
Preparing for an acupuncture appointment isn’t intensive, but there are a few things you can do to maximize the effectiveness of your treatment:
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Eat something a few hours before your appointment to get the maximum benefits of the treatment and avoid some slight nausea or lightheadedness that might occur if you have treatment on an empty stomach
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Drink plenty of water
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Avoid caffeine and alcohol
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Book your appointment with plenty of time before and after so you can rest and relax for the best benefits
Acupuncture After-Care
After your appointment, make sure to get some rest, drink plenty of water, eat a healthy meal, and take care of yourself. You may also want to book a follow-up appointment to continue your treatment. You can gain the most benefits from regular sessions, which may be a couple of times per month or week, depending on your therapist’s suggestions for your treatment plan.