Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture

What is acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture is a natural healing modality that balances the body and promotes health and well-being. This form of Traditional Chinese Medicine has been practiced for thousands of years! Acupuncture promotes natural healing through the insertion of very thin, fine needles into specific sites on the body. Acupuncture encourages the flow of energy to promote the body's natural healing abilities. Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the endocrine and nervous systems, as well as blood flow and immune system function. Acupuncture also boosts endorphins, the body's natural pain-killing chemical.

What's more, research has shown that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry by impacting the release of neurohormones and neurotransmitters. This affects the parts of the central nervous system related to sensation and involuntary body functions, including immune reactions and processes that regulate a person's blood flow, body temperature, and blood pressure.

The National Institute of Health Consensus Statement on acupuncture recognizes the efficacy of acupuncture for headache, menstrual cramps, asthma, addiction, myofacial pain, postoperative and chemotherapy nausea and vomiting, stroke rehabilitation, osteoarthritis, postoperative dental pain, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, low back pain, and more.€

Is Acupuncture treatment safe?

Yes! The needles uses are sterile and disposable, and acupuncturist physicians undergo comprehensive training to ensure safety.

Is Acupuncture painful?

Most people's experience with needles are injection needles, which are thicker and hollow with cutting edges. The needles used in acupuncture are hair fine and extremely thin. Most people report experiencing little to no pain upon insertion of acupuncture needles.

What conditions can be treated with Acupuncture?

Acupuncture has been found to be beneficial for a broad range of health issues including acute conditions and pain as well as chronic and degenerative diseases. Countless patients have found relief at The Points of Health, for everything from headaches and migraines, insomnia and trouble sleeping, mood issues, and digestive ailments to weight loss, fertility and hormonal issues, chronic pain, sports injury, and other issues andimbalances. Visit our Conditions Treated page for a more comprehensive list, and learn how acupuncture can help you!

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Every patient is different. A series of acupuncture treatments are typically necessary to resolve issues. During your initial acupuncture consultation at The Points of Health, we will work with you to customize a treatment plan as well as answer any questions you may have. Contact us or schedule an acupuncture appointment now!

What can I expect when I go to my acupuncture consultation?

Your Maitland acupuncturist will conduct a full health history to find out about the underlying causes of your health issues and complaints. You will be asked a series of questions about your symptoms, health, nutrition, and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist mayc heck your pulse, examine your tongue ,and palpate various areas on your body to help determine which meridians and organs are not in balance. Your acupuncturist will use this information to customize a treatment plan to rebalance your body and resolve your issues!

How should I prepare for my acupuncture appointment?