You can learn more from the common asked questions about acupuncture
If you’re curious about acupuncture, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions to help you learn more.
Acupuncture (from Lat. acus, “needle” (noun), and pungere, “prick” (verb)) or in Standard Mandarin, zhēn jiǔ (lit: needle – moxibustion) is a technique of inserting and manipulating filiform needles into “acupuncture points” on the body with the aim of restoring health and well-being, e.g. treating pain and diseases.
Acupuncture is thought to have originated in China and is most commonly associated with Traditional Chinese medicine ([TCM]TCM ARTICLES). Different types of acupuncture (Classical Chinese, Japanese, and Korean acupuncture) are practiced and taught throughout the world.
In China, the practice of acupuncture can perhaps be traced as far back as the stone age, with the Bian shi, or sharpened stones. Stone acupuncture needles dating back to 3000 B.C. have been found by archeologists in Inner Mongolia.
Clearer evidence exists from the 1st millennium BCE, and archeological evidence has been identified with the period of the Han dynasty (202 BC?220 AD). Forms of it are also described in the literature of traditional Korean medicine where it is called chimsul. It is also important in Kampo, the traditional medicine system of Japan.
Western medicine proposes that acupuncture produces its effects by controlling the nervous system, thus stimulating the activity of pain-killing biochemicals such as endorphins and immune system cells at specific sites in the body.
In addition, studies have shown that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry by altering the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones, thus affecting parts of the central nervous system related to sensation and involuntary body functions. These are immune reactions and processes that regulate a person’s blood pressure, blood flow, and body temperature.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. It involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body in order to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
There are many benefits associated with acupuncture, including pain relief, improved mood, and increased relaxation. Studies have shown that acupuncture can help reduce inflammation and relieve chronic pain, such as headaches, back pain, and arthritis. Additionally, it can be used to improve mood by helping to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Finally, acupuncture can help promote relaxation by stimulating endorphins and other hormones that are associated with relaxation.
Overall, acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment option for a wide range of conditions. It is important to consult with your doctor or acupuncturist before beginning any treatment plan in order to ensure you receive the best possible care.
During your first visit, Dr. Zhou will ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behavior.
He will want to obtain a complete picture of your needs and behaviors that may contribute to your condition. Inform the Dr. Zhou about all treatments or medications you are taking and all medical conditions you have. Please download and complete these initial health history forms. By completing these forms you will save & maximize time when you come in for your first visit.
Treatments are between 45 minutes and 1 hour long.
The first treatment may last as long as 1 and a half hours.
The number of treatments required depends on the severity of your condition and how long you’ve had the illness.
In China, after the first initial consultation and examination you would receive a series of daily treatments over the course of two to four weeks (of course in China acupuncture is widely mainstream and 100% covered by insurance). In order to increase the accumulated effects of treatment and increase your bodies healing capacity, we recommend that you initially receive 2-4 treatments a week.
Generally speaking a half dozen to a dozen treatments will stabilize your condition. This depends upon the duration, severity, and nature of the complaint. Generally from dozen to 20 treatments are adequate for the majority of chronic disorders. Some acute conditions may only require several treatments and some degenerative conditions may require as many as 40 or more treatments. However, the patient has the right to expect that their major complaint will be addressed and treated in a direct and timely manner. The frequency of treatments will become less as your body starts to heal itself. We strongly recommend correcting the root of your problem not the symptoms. To maximize your optimal health we also suggest adding into your budget regular treatments every couple of weeks. You are in charge of your quality of life!
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting thin needles into the body to stimulate certain points. After an acupuncture session, it is important to avoid taking a shower for at least 30 minutes. This is because the needles can disrupt the energy pathways in your body and a shower could interfere with this process. Additionally, taking a hot shower after acupuncture can cause your body to become too relaxed and make you feel tired or lightheaded. It’s also important to note that the needles used in acupuncture are sterile and will not cause any infection, so there’s no need to worry about hygiene. Ultimately, avoiding a shower after acupuncture helps ensure that you get the most out of your session and reap all its benefits.
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting thin needles into the body to stimulate certain points. After an acupuncture session, it is important to avoid taking a shower for at least 30 minutes. This is because the needles can disrupt the energy pathways in your body and a shower could interfere with this process. Additionally, taking a hot shower after acupuncture can cause your body to become too relaxed and make you feel tired or lightheaded. It’s also important to note that the needles used in acupuncture are sterile and will not cause any infection, so there’s no need to worry about hygiene. Ultimately, avoiding a shower after acupuncture helps ensure that you get the most out of your session and reap all its benefits.
Treatments are done on a weekly basis, usually three times a week for the first two weeks, twice a week for a month or so, and once a week after that. Once the condition has been controlled and you are symptom-free, the treatments are done less frequently.
Problems that have been around for a long time usually take more treatments to resolve than ones that have come about recently. Your treatment course will be determined after the first visit and reassessed after each session.
Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are both based in ancient Chinese medical practices.
Acupuncture is a component of TCM which involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. This technique is believed to restore balance within the body and alleviate pain, stress, and other physical ailments.
On the other hand, TCM encompasses a much wider range of treatments than just acupuncture. This includes herbs, dietary changes, exercise, massage therapy and lifestyle advice. It also focuses on addressing the root cause of an illness or condition rather than simply treating its symptoms. By taking into account a person’s individual needs, TCM seeks to maintain harmony between mind, body and spirit for optimal health.
We use acupuncture needles that are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People’s acupuncture experiences are different, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. Incorrect needle placement, patient movement, or needle defects can cause soreness and pain during treatment.
This is why it’s important to seek treatment from a qualified acupuncturist
You should review your health insurance policy to determine if acupuncture treatments are covered.
If not, you may want to contact your insurance provider and encourage them make provisions for acupuncture treatments.
It is best to eat a light meal before your appointment so that your body has energy to work with. Sometimes a person who has not eaten will feel lightheaded or weak when receiving an acupuncture treatment. In this case, inform your practitioner immediately and they will take the appropriate actions.
It is best to wear shorts or loose clothing so that the arms and legs below the elbows and knees, as well as the abdomen, are accessible. Do not engage in strenuous activity, drink alcohol, smoke excessively, or ingest heavy meals before or after your treatment. This will allow the body to adjust to the effects of the acupuncture.
Yes. Because there are some points that are contraindicated during pregnancy, it is important to inform your practitioner if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant.
After acupuncture, there are a few things that you should avoid in order to maximize the benefits of your treatment. First, it is important not to engage in any strenuous activities or exercise for at least 24 hours after the session. This will help your body to rest and recover from the treatment. Second, you should also avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine as these can interfere with the healing process. Lastly, it is important to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water after your acupuncture session as this will help flush out toxins released during the treatment.
Yes, it is recommended to drink a lot of water after acupuncture. This helps to flush out any toxins that may have been released during the treatment. Drinking plenty of water also helps to move the energy and Qi in your body, which is essential for healing and balance. Additionally, staying hydrated can help reduce any post-treatment soreness or fatigue. It’s best to drink 1-2 glasses of water immediately after your session and then continue drinking throughout the day.
Still have more questions about our acupuncture treatment?
Please call us at (608) 236-9000 or send us an email. We’re here to help you.