What happens at a typical acupuncture session?
The initial acupuncture appointment starts with a discussion with your acupuncture therapist. This will include a chat about your health history, specific ailments, and any concerns. Your therapist then follows with physical diagnosis and develops a suitable treatment plan in consultation with you.
Subsequent acupuncture sessions are generally focused on specific areas, and treatments may include Acupuncture, Moxibustion, Electro Acupuncture, Tui na (Chinese Massage), Gua Sha (Skin scraping), Cupping, and/or Cosmetic Acupuncture.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Generally it does not hurt at all. The needles used are approximately the thickness of a human hair. Sometimes you might feel an uncomfortable sensation initially but that quickly passes.
Do I need to prepare for an acupuncture session?
Ideally have a shower prior to your appointment. This will also aid in loosening tight ligaments and muscles. It is a good idea to eat something before a treatment.
Are there any side effects to acupuncture?
Some people experience feeling lightheaded after a treatment. This is mostly attributed to getting up from the table too quickly, or the relaxed sensation from the treatment.
What is the difference between acupuncture and dry-needling?
The practices share some similarities, both aim to provide relief from pain and use the same type of stainless filiform fine needles. Although, they involve very different methods which should not be confused.
Acupuncture has been used for centuries and is now well regulated. The primary philosophy is to release and work with the flow of Qi throughout the body to bring back balance to the systems which are out of balance. Therefore it can be used for a wide variety of medical conditions.
Dry-needling has been developed more recently. It targets the neuromusculoskeletal system and is designed to relieve pain and tightness in muscles. Hence why this practice is used as an adjunct to therapies such as Physiotherapy and Chiropractic.
How are Acupuncturists trained?
Acupuncture qualifications in Australia require a minimum of four years of full-time university study in a Bachelor of Health Science, which includes a broad range of in depth study and 1000 hrs of supervised Clinical Practice, as well as on going continued professional development (CPD) studies every year to obtain registration.
Is there any scientific evidence that acupuncture actually works?
Contemporary western research has found strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of acupuncture as an alternative to chronic pain management, to download this evidence, please click here.
Can I use acupuncture in conjunction with other treatments?
Yes, unless expressly advised against by your medical professionals. To ensure your welfare, our acupuncturist will discuss any health issues you have prior to a treatment.
Is acupuncture safe for children?
Acupuncture is as safe for children as it is for anyone. Your practitioner will be sensitive to each child/individuals needs.