FAQ
First time receiving acupuncture?
What to expect during a treatment
The first appointment is 60 minutes.
During this time we will discuss the reason for your visit and take a thorough history and relevant details about your health. Your consult will include an effective and relaxing treatment, which may include acupuncture, cupping and/or moxa. I will then customise a treatment plan specific to your health goals which will include post treatment care such as meal suggestions, herbal medicines and exercises to do at home.
A return appointment is 45 minutes.
This includes a quick discussion about how you are progressing, a treatment and adjustments to the treatment plan if needed.
Common questions patients have
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been practiced for thousands of years.
The underlying principle of acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi, which is considered the vital energy that flows through pathways in the body known as meridians. According to TCM theory, when the flow of Qi is disrupted or imbalanced, it can lead to health issues. Acupuncture is believed to help restore the proper flow of Qi and promote balance within the body.
During an acupuncture session, fine needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points along the meridians. The needles are usually left in place for a certain amount of time, typically around 15 to 30 minutes. The depth of insertion, angle of insertion, and the choice of acupuncture points vary depending on the condition being treated and the practitioner’s approach.
Acupuncture is often used to address a wide range of health concerns, including pain management (such as chronic pain, headaches, and back pain), stress reduction, anxiety, digestive disorders, respiratory issues, and more.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture sensations can vary widely among individuals, but most people report only minimal discomfort or sensation during acupuncture treatments. The sensations experienced during acupuncture are often different from the pain associated with injections or other medical procedures. Common sensations people might feel during acupuncture include:
Deqi Sensation: Acupuncturists aim to achieve the “deqi” sensation, which is often described as a dull ache, tingling, or pressure around the needle insertion site. This sensation is considered a sign that the acupuncture point is being stimulated effectively. Some people find the deqi sensation pleasant or soothing.
Minimal Discomfort: The needles used in acupuncture are very thin and flexible. Many people feel little to no discomfort when the needles are inserted. Some might feel a slight pinch or prick, but this sensation is usually brief.
Warmth or Energy Flow: Some individuals report feeling a warm or flowing sensation along the meridian, the pathway where the energy (Qi) is believed to flow. This is often considered a positive response to the treatment.
Numbness or Heaviness: In some cases, acupuncture points might feel numb or heavy during treatment. This sensation is generally not painful and is associated with the desired effects of the treatment.
No Sensation: It’s also possible for some acupuncture points to be virtually sensation-free during treatment. This doesn’t necessarily mean the treatment isn’t effective; individual responses can vary.
During the session, communicate openly with your acupuncturist. If you experience any discomfort, sensations, or changes, let them know so they can adjust the treatment as needed.
What if I am scared of needles?
It’s not uncommon for people to have a fear of needles, and this fear can be a barrier to considering acupuncture as a treatment option.
Make sure you communicate your fear with your acupuncturist who will take steps to help you feel more comfortable during the treatment such as staring with a conservative amount of needles, visualisations and breathing techniques.
Your comfort and well-being are important. Acupuncture should not cause undue distress, and your acupuncturist should be understanding and supportive of your concerns.
What should I wear for my appointment?
During an acupuncture appointment, it’s recommended to wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the areas where the acupuncturist will be placing the needles. This ensures that the session is comfortable, convenient, and efficient. Here are some tips on what to wear:
Loose-Fitting Clothing: Choose clothing that is not tight or restrictive. Loose-fitting pants and a comfortable shirt or top are ideal. This allows the acupuncturist to access the points they need without you having to undress completely.
Access to Arms and Legs: Acupuncture points are located throughout the body, including the arms and legs. Wearing clothing that can be easily rolled up or pushed aside to expose these areas makes it easier for the acupuncturist to work on the necessary points.
Layers: If the weather is chilly, consider wearing layers that can be easily removed. This way, you can stay warm before and after the treatment while still providing access to the acupuncture points.
Comfortable Footwear: If the treatment involves points on your feet or ankles, wearing shoes that are easy to slip off can be convenient.
Anything I need to do to prepare for my appointment?
Preparing for an acupuncture treatment can help ensure that you have a comfortable and effective session. Here are some steps to consider before your acupuncture appointment:
Choose Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the areas where the acupuncturist will place the needles. This will make it easier for them to work on the necessary points.
Eat Lightly: It’s generally a good idea to have a light meal or snack before your acupuncture appointment to avoid feeling overly hungry during the session. Avoid heavy, greasy, or large meals right before treatment.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before your appointment. Being well-hydrated can help with the insertion of the needles and support your overall well-being.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: It’s recommended to avoid consuming caffeine or alcohol before the treatment, as these substances can affect your body’s responses and may interfere with the effectiveness of the acupuncture session.
Communicate Health Information: Be sure to inform your acupuncturist about any health conditions, medications, allergies, or concerns you have. This information will help them tailor the treatment to your individual needs.
Turn Off Electronics: Before entering the treatment room, turn off your phone and any other electronic devices to minimise distractions and create a peaceful atmosphere.
Follow Instructions: If your acupuncturist provides specific instructions or recommendations, such as dietary guidelines or aftercare advice, make sure to follow them for the best results.
Open Communication: During the session, communicate openly with your acupuncturist. If you experience any discomfort, sensations, or changes, let them know so they can adjust the treatment as needed.
How many treatments will it take before I get better?
The number of acupuncture sessions required before you start feeling better can vary widely based on several factors, including the nature of your health condition, its severity, how long you’ve had the condition, your overall health, and how your body responds to acupuncture.
For some acute conditions, you might notice improvement after just a few sessions. However, for chronic or more complex health issues, it may take several sessions to experience noticeable changes. Here are a few points to consider:
Acute vs. Chronic Conditions: Acute conditions, such as a recent injury or minor illness, might respond more quickly to acupuncture, often within a few sessions. Chronic conditions, which have been present for a longer time, may take more time and sessions to show improvement.
Frequency of Sessions: Initially, acupuncture sessions might be scheduled more frequently, such as once or twice a week. As you begin to experience improvements, the frequency might decrease.
Individual Response: Each person’s body reacts differently to acupuncture. Some individuals might respond more quickly and noticeably, while others might experience a more gradual change.
Complexity of Condition: Some health issues are more intricate and interconnected, requiring more time for the body to rebalance and heal. These cases might require additional sessions to achieve desired outcomes.
Overall Health: Your overall health, including your lifestyle, diet, stress levels, and sleep patterns, can influence how quickly you respond to acupuncture. Lifestyle changes that support your well-being can also contribute to the effectiveness of the treatment.
Consistency: Consistency in attending acupuncture sessions as recommended by your practitioner can play a significant role in achieving positive outcomes. Skipping sessions or irregular attendance might slow down your progress.
It’s important to have open communication with your acupuncturist throughout the process. They can give you a better idea of what to expect based on their assessment of your condition. As you progress through your sessions, share your observations, changes you’ve noticed, and any concerns you might have. Adjustments to the treatment plan can be made based on your individual responses.
Remember that acupuncture is often part of a holistic approach to health and wellness. It’s important to continue working with your healthcare team, including your primary healthcare provider, and follow any recommendations they provide.
What is Chinese herbal medicine?
Chinese herbal medicine is a traditional medical practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles. It involves the use of various plant-based substances, such as roots, leaves, stems, flowers, and minerals, to create herbal formulas that are tailored to an individual’s specific health condition. These formulas are believed to help restore balance and harmony within the body.
Here’s an overview of how Chinese herbal medicine is thought to work within the framework of TCM:
Holistic Approach: Chinese herbal medicine operates on a holistic view of the body and its interactions with the environment. It considers the individual as a whole, including physical, emotional, and environmental factors that contribute to health and disease.
Qi and Balance: Similar to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine is based on the concept of Qi (vital energy) flowing through meridians in the body. Illness is believed to result from an imbalance or blockage of Qi. Herbal formulas are designed to restore the proper flow of Qi and balance Yin and Yang, two opposing yet complementary forces that underlie all aspects of life.
Pattern Diagnosis: In TCM, health conditions are categorized based on pattern diagnosis, which takes into account the overall symptoms, tongue and pulse diagnosis, and other factors. Each pattern corresponds to an underlying imbalance in the body’s systems. Herbal formulas are selected based on these patterns, rather than just addressing specific symptoms.
Synergistic Formulas: Chinese herbal medicine often combines multiple herbs in a single formula. The interaction of these herbs is believed to enhance the therapeutic effects and minimise potential side effects.
Individualised Treatment: Chinese herbal medicine emphasises personalised treatment. Two people with the same Western diagnosis might receive different herbal formulas if their underlying TCM patterns are different. This individualized approach aims to address the root cause of the condition.
Long-Term Benefits: Chinese herbal medicine often takes a gradual approach, focusing on long-term health improvements rather than providing immediate relief. It aims to correct imbalances and strengthen the body’s natural healing mechanisms over time.
It’s important to note that the mechanisms of Chinese herbal medicine are deeply rooted in TCM philosophy and differ from the explanations offered by Western medicine. While some herbal compounds have been studied for their potential pharmacological effects, the holistic nature of Chinese herbal medicine can make it challenging to evaluate its effectiveness using the same methodologies applied to Western pharmaceuticals.
What are those bruises that you see on peoples backs?
Cupping is a traditional therapeutic technique that involves placing cups on the skin to create a suction effect. This technique has been practiced for thousands of years in various cultures, including Chinese, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern traditional medicine. Cupping is often used as a complementary therapy to address a range of health conditions.
Here’s how cupping works:
Types of Cups: Traditionally, cups were made from materials like glass, bamboo, or pottery. In modern practice, cups can also be made from materials like plastic or silicone.
Creating Suction: In dry cupping, a vacuum is created within the cup by briefly heating the air inside it and then placing the cup on the skin. As the air inside the cup cools down, it creates a suction effect that draws the skin and underlying tissue into the cup.
Placement and Duration: The cups are usually left in place for a few minutes, and they can be stationary or moved around (called mobile cupping) over specific areas of the body. The practitioner decides on the placement and duration of cupping based on the individual’s condition and the therapeutic goals.
Effects: Cupping is believed to have various effects on the body. It’s thought to help improve circulation, release toxins, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cupping is used to balance the body’s Qi and address conditions related to stagnation or imbalance.
Marking: After cupping, it’s common for circular marks or discolouration to appear on the skin. These marks are not bruises; they are caused by the suction and are usually painless. The marks typically fade within a few days to a week.
Cupping is often used to address conditions such as pain, muscle tension, respiratory issues, and certain types of injuries.
What is moxa and what does it do?
Moxibustion, often referred to as moxa, is a traditional Chinese medical technique that involves applying heat to specific points on the body using the dried leaves of the mugwort plant (Artemisia vulgaris). Like acupuncture and cupping, moxibustion is a fundamental component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is believed to have various therapeutic benefits.
Here’s how moxibustion works:
Moxa Preparation: Moxa is created by drying and processing the leaves of the mugwort plant. It can be formed into various shapes, such as cones, sticks, or threads. Moxa can be used on its own or in combination with acupuncture.
Application of Heat: During a moxibustion session, a practitioner ignites a moxa cone or stick and holds it close to the skin at specific acupuncture points or areas of the body. The heat generated by the burning moxa is directed towards these points. The practitioner ensures that the heat is comfortable and not painful.
Direct and Indirect Moxibustion: There are two main types of moxibustion: direct and indirect. In direct moxibustion, a small piece of moxa is placed directly on the skin and burned. In indirect moxibustion, the moxa is burned at a slight distance from the skin, often separated by a layer of protective substance like ginger, garlic, or salt.
Therapeutic Effects: Moxibustion is believed to stimulate circulation, enhance the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, warm the body, and support the body’s natural healing processes. It’s often used to address conditions related to cold or stagnation, such as pain, digestive issues, and menstrual irregularities.
Duration and Technique: The duration and technique of moxibustion can vary. The practitioner selects specific points based on the individual’s health condition and applies moxibustion accordingly. The treatment might involve brief applications or longer sessions.
Safety Considerations: Moxibustion involves the use of heat and burning material, so it’s important to be cautious to prevent burns or other adverse effects. Qualified practitioners are trained to apply moxibustion safely and effectively.
Moxibustion is often used in conjunction with acupuncture and other traditional therapies as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Cancellation policy
I have a common courtesy 24hr cancellation policy:
If you miss an appointment or you do not give me 24hrs notice to cancel your appointment a Missed Appointment Fee will apply.
Repeat offenders will be charged 50% of their consultation fee.
Appointments can be rescheduled or cancelled by following a link within the confirmation email/sms.
I appreciate your understanding in this matter.