FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is oriental medicine?

Oriental Medicine is a complete medical system that has diagnosed, treated, and prevented disease for over 2,500 years. Oriental Medicine does not look at isolated symptoms, but is based on discerning a pattern of disharmony and then treating the whole person. It is used to strengthen the physical body, prevent disease, control pain and achieve longevity. Oriental Medicine is a holistic system used to treat disease by restoring harmony and balance in the body.   It incorporates acupuncture, massage, gua sha, cupping, herbs, moxibustion and lifestyle counseling.

How does acupuncture/Oriental Medicine work?

There are 14 major energy channels called meridians that course through the human body encompassing the head, arms, hands, legs, feet, torso and internal organs.  A subtle energy called qi, circulates via the meridians to all parts of the body.  Any misdirection, blockage, or other derangement of the amount, flow or balance of qi may result in pain, dysfunction and ill health.  Using acupuncture needles (hair thin), certain points (acupoints) are stimulated which are along the course of the meridians. Such stimualtion helps restore the normal balance and flow of qi so organs and bodily systems can work together in harmony.

Is acupuncture painful?

There may be sensations when the needle is inserted such as tingling, itching, warming.  It should not be painful.  Once needles are in, you are encouraged to relax and not move as moving can dislodge or change the position of the needle it may feel uncomfortable.

How many times are the needles used.

Needles are used once, after use they are put into a bio-hazard container and disposed of properly.

Is anything else done during a acupuncture session?

Depending upon your complaint, I may use: moxibustion, cupping, qua sha, essential oils, infra-red heat lamps.  Some people enjoy having an eye pillow cover their eyes and listening to soft, soothing music.

How long will it take before I feel better?

It depends. Each of us is unique and respond differently to treatment. It also depends upon how long you have experienced your condition.  The longer you have had the problem, the longer it may take to resolve the situation. I don’t know until you receive a session, how you are going to respond. It may take 4-6 treatments in order to get a substantial change.

How long does a session last?

The initial acupuncture treatment, including the intake portion, is about 1 ½ – 2 hours. Subsequent sessions are about an hour.

What Can I do to Prepare For My Session:

It is best that you are not hungry when you come. I recommend that you have eaten within 1-3 hours before a session.  .

After a Session?

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to help you body rid itself of toxins. You can go back to work. You may feel very relaxed and a little sleepy. You may not want to do any strenuous physical activity; let your body adjust to the changes you are experiencing. It is best to wait a couple of hours before doing anything demanding.

Recommendations to Enhance Your Recovery

Take your herbs or dietary suggestions, and do your homework. I usually give you recommendations of what you can do to enhance your treatment. The highest form of healing is what an individual can do for oneself.

Frequency of Treatment

For acute situations, especially ones of pain, I recommend coming 2-3x/week for a session in order to experience quicker results.  Many people come 1x/week for problems that aren’t pain related such as menstrual irregularities, digestive or respiratory disturbances.  I also recommend maintenance visits, for example, 1x/month to keep your body in a healthy state and to maintain a free flow of energy.

What if I Don’t Feel Better Right Away?

You may feel worse temporarily.  When you have an established pattern, acupuncture gets the blood flowing, and if a pattern is entrenched, the body is pushes back against the change. Usually, you will feel better after 1 or 2 days.