What Can Be Treated
by Acupuncture

How
Acupuncture Works

History & Philosophy
of Acupuncture

What Happens
During a Treatment

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What Happens During a Treatment

On your first visit, a detailed, thorough examination and interview will be conducted. During this time, the acupuncturist will evaluate your health needs and the state of your energy’s balance. This is done by considering the symptoms you are experiencing and also by employing several other methods, including: Chinese pulse diagnosis, assessment of the condition and appearance of your tongue, hair, nails, complexion and other features. The acupuncturist also asks questions related to aspects of daily life, such as sleep patterns and appetite.

Jureerat (Julie), Peter’s Wife, Performing Massage for a Client

The patient may usually expect to experience very little sensation upon the insertion of the hair-thin needles (about ¼ the thickness of hypodermic needles). Acupuncture is not at all like “getting a shot.” One may feel a slight pinch or pressure at the moment of insertion, but that will quickly subside. Then one often feels a mild energetic flow from the point of insertion to some part of the body. Then patients usually experience a peaceful calm and profound relaxation. Many patients even fall asleep during the treatment. This calming effect generally endures for some time afterward. The sensations felt during a treatment are subjective and variable. Even if there are no sensations, a treatment can be quite beneficial. The needles are removed at the end of the treatment and this procedure is painless.

As a health care system, acupuncture is extremely safe. It is drug-free. There are no side effects (as there are with toxic drugs). Treatment can be adjusted during each session to adapt to the patient’s response. We use disposable needles exclusively. The needles are used once and then thrown away.

The frequency of treatment will depend on various factors, such as the severity or mildness of symptoms, whether they are chronic or acute, and the fact that each individual has his or her own response.

Herbal remedies are an important and integral part of this healing modality. They are often prescribed to enhance, or even replace, acupuncture procedures.