Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture

Jul 23

needle 2Acupuncture and the art of Chinese Medicine are recorded in classical texts
as far back as 2500 BC. It is a complete medical system that promotes
personal well-being, prevents disharmony, and addresses many health issues.
It is a holistic medicine which looks at the apparent symptoms as only a
part of the whole picture.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) includes the use of acupuncture, Chinese
herbology, Oriental massage, nutrition and Oriental movement arts.  Oregon
State Law defines acupuncture as “an Oriental health care practice used to
promote health and to treat neurological, organic or functional disorder by
the stimulation of specific points on the surface of the body by the
insertion of needles. ‘Acupuncture’ includes the treatment method of
moxibustion [a fragrant smelling herb that is burned], as well as the use of
electrical, thermal [heat], mechanical or magnetic devices, with or without
needles, to stimulate acupuncture points and acupuncture meridians and to
induce acupuncture anesthesia or analgesia.” The practice of acupuncture
also includes the following modalities as authorized by the Board of Medical
Examiners for the State of Oregon:

A.   Traditional and modern techniques of diagnosis and evaluation;
B.   Oriental Massage, exercise and related therapeutic methods; and
C.   The use of Oriental pharmacopoeia {herbs}, vitamins, minerals and
dietary advice.

WHAT TYPE OF NEEDLES ARE USED? DOES IT HURT?

I use sterile, individually packaged needles.  They are thin and developed
to cause little discomfort upon insertion.  After the needle is put in you
might feel heat, a slight tingling, or a pulling sensation.  We call this a
“Qi sensation” and that is how we know it is working.  I have had patients
who are frightened of needles but are absolutely fine with acupuncture.  You
will be surprised how relaxing an acupuncture treatment can be!

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT WHEN I COME IN FOR MY FIRST APPOINTMENT?

First, you will have a comprehensive interview and examination.  In Chinese
medicine we use all of our senses, combined with our knowledge to form a
diagnosis.  Unique to TCM, we examine your pulse and look at your tongue to
pinpoint energetic and physical imbalances.  Once your diagnosis is
determined you will receive your first acupuncture treatment based on your
unique needs.  Your treatment may also involve the use of massage, the
application of heat, or other traditional techniques.  You may also receive
herbs during your first or second treatment.  Chinese Herbs are a vital part
of the medicine and come in various forms.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED AND HOW OFTEN?

The frequency and duration of your treatments will be based on the nature of
your condition.  For example, for some health concerns a course of treatment
may last six months with treatments once a week.  For acute conditions,
treatment may only last two weeks with two sessions a week.  Your
practitioner will monitor how you are doing and regularly discuss your
progress with you.

If you have more questions about your specific condition, please call for a free consultation: 503 287 0886.