What is Medical Acupuncture?

Medical acupuncture is a term used to describe acupuncture performed by a medical doctor who has also had thorough training in acupuncture as a specialty. It involves using needles, heat, and electric stimulation to promote the body’s natural healing abilities. The classical Chinese theory is that acupuncture works through influencing energy channels(AKA “Chi”) which run through the body and over its surface. The modern scientific explanation is that acupuncture works through stimulating the body’s nervous system to release chemicals which change the experience of pain or influence its internal regulatory system.

Does acupuncture really work?

Yes. For over 2,000 years patients have been successfully treated with acupuncture throughout the world. Research has shown that 80% of people respond to acupuncture. You do not need to believe in acupuncture for it to work

How many treatments will I need?

For most problems, an initial series of 6-8 treatments at weekly intervals followed by maintenance treatments at monthly, then quarterly intervals is sufficient. Some problems may require more treatments. Generally, a response should be noticed within the first 3-5 treatments, although it usually takes 6-8 to control a problem.

Do the needles hurt? What are they like?

Patients experience acupuncture needles differently. Most feel a mild pinch as the needle enters the skin. Some may not feel the needles at all. No pain is felt once the needle is through the skin. Unlike hypodermic needles used to draw blood(which have cutting edges and are hollow) acupuncture needles are very thin, solid, and have a smooth tip. They are also sterile and disposable. There is no risk of infection.