Acupuncture FAQ’s
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by people interested in having acupuncture treatment. If you have a question that is not answered here, do please feel free to get in touch.
Who can benefit from acupuncture?
A lot of people turn to acupuncture to treat a variety of symptoms and health conditions. Others consider acupuncture as a means of strengthening their constitution or lifting their spirits when they feel unwell.
What does acupuncture feel like?
Acupuncture is generally very relaxing, as evidenced by the testimonies of most patients. Upon insertion, the needles can sometimes deliver a tingling sensation or a momentary dull ache. This is a good sign that the body’s qi has been successfully stimulated. It’s important to note that the needles used for acupuncture are a lot finer compared to those used for blood tests and injections. Some patients do not even feel them as the practitioner inserts the needles at different points of the body, and once they are in place, it often requires a conscious effort for you to notice them.
How many sessions are required?
The answer depends on your individual needs. After the initial consultation, your acupuncturist will likely ask you to return once or twice weekly for the next few sessions. It’s common to start noticing the benefits of the first or second session, although the effects of more severe health conditions may require more time to manifest. Once your condition has started to improve, it is then often possible to increase the time between follow-up treatments to every couple of weeks or once per month. Many people also treat acupuncture as preventive healthcare, ensuring that they return for at least one session at the onset of each session to keep their overall health in top condition. How will I feel after an acupuncture treatment?
You are going to feel very calm and relaxed. There are cases in which the treatment may be particularly strong, causing you to feel drowsy for a short time. Do I need to prepare myself before treatment?
Before having acupuncture treatment, avoid eating a large meal, at least, one hour before your appointment because the digestion process can alter your pulse pattern. Alcoholic beverages and any food or drink that gives color to your tongue such as tea and coffee must be avoided as well. It’s recommended to wear loose clothes to make it easier for the practitioner to access different acupoints, such as those on your lower extremities.
What should I do after each session?
After your acupuncture session, there’s a good chance that you’ll feel extremely relaxed. Going back to work immediately after the treatment shouldn’t be an issue. However, you must avoid heavy exercise or any rigorous physical activity after your session and do not drink alcohol within 24 hours of receiving acupuncture. Are there any negative side effects of acupuncture?
Acupuncture doesn’t come with any adverse side effects. If any, these side effects are so mild and typically go away after a short period. In very rare cases, minor bruising may occur at the acupuncture points, or you may also experience a temporary flare-up of your condition as a result of the clearing and re-settling of your qi. If this happens, it is no cause for concern and will soon pass.
Can children and teenagers get acupuncture?
Yes. Acupuncture has been shown to provide the same health benefits to children and adolescents. Acupuncture has been proven safe for people of all ages, including babies, toddlers and the elderly. When used alongside conventional medicine, this practice can be very effective. How does acupuncture help improve overall health? Acupuncture has been long considered as an effective solution for a wealth of illnesses and symptoms, from general feelings of constant fatigue and anxiety to more specific complaints such as muscle pain and migraines. Should I inform my doctor that I'm getting acupuncture?
If you’re receiving any form of treatment from a healthcare professional, it’s a good idea to tell them that you’re planning to have acupuncture. Similarly, your acupuncturist must be informed about any medication you’re currently taking as this might affect the flow of qi in your body and your general response to the treatment.
Should I continue taking my prescribed medication even when I'm in the middle of acupuncture therapy?
Yes. There’s a chance that the acupuncture treatment may help you reduce or even completely stop taking your medication, but you should always consult your doctor before making any hasty changes especially when it comes to your prescription. Never stop taking your medication without getting the okay from your doctor.
Does my private medical insurance cover the cost of my acupuncture treatment?
The answer depends on your insurance provider. The demand for complementary medicine has seen a steady increase over the years, prompting more health insurance providers to cover traditional acupuncture. Talk to your insurance provider and read your policy details. I’m a member of the Acupuncture Society. These are the insurance companies that cover the costs of acupuncture therapy when received by an Acupuncture Society member:
- Cigna
- Aviva
- Pay Care
- Healthshield (covers Acupressure)
- Simply Health
Some companies may require insured clients to be referred by medical specialists, so be sure to check this with your insurer. Be sure to check with your medical insurer the expenses that will be covered and what their terms and conditions are.
