What does acupuncture feel like and does it hurt?
Different people experience acupuncture insertion and stimulation differently. Most describe the insertion of the needle as a mosquito-bite like sensation or pinch, followed by a heavy, dull, achy or tingly sensation. Most do not describe the sensation as painful, many patients becoming very relaxed, even falling asleep during their treatment. Some have little sense of the needles at all.
what should i expect from my first treatment?
The first session is 75-90 minutes, including a comprehensive initial intake and assessment, discussion of wellness goals, and your 1st acupuncture treatment. During the acupuncture treatment, you will like on a comfortable heated massage table. Acupuncture points will be selected based on your individual diagnosis with the intention to balance and harmonize your system, allowing the body to rest and relax while restoring the body to a place of health and healing. You will rest for approximately 20-40 minutes with the needles in place and the the needles are removed.
WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE AND AFTER MY TREATMENT?
Before your acupuncture treatment, make sure you have eaten, but not too much or too recently. It is best to not have your stomach too full or too empty. Also, refrain from drinking alcohol before or immediately after the treatment. For 2-3 hours following your treatment try to avoid stressful situations, keep your body at a comfortable temperature, stay away from drafts and wind, drink room temperature or warm beverages if thirsty, and avoid overexertion or vigorous exercise. In order for you body to adjust to the changes triggered by the treatment, a calm and peaceful state is best.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, acupuncture is safe. Certified acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education, including detailed study of human anatomy and certification in Clean Needle Technique. To ensure your complete safety, acupuncture needles are sterile, single use, disposable needles. Side effects from acupuncture are rare and considerably less severe when compared to some Western medical treatments. Some side effects include minimal bruising, light-headedness, and a slight itchy or burning sensation at the sight of insertion.