Does acupuncture hurt?
The needles used in acupuncture are very small, thin and solid, unlike hypodermic needles at a
hospital. They are approximately the size of a human hair. Some points may sting a bit when the needle is inserted, but any pain is minor and goes away within seconds. The benefits outweigh any discomfort you may experience.
How many treatments do I need?
The number of treatments you will need depends on many variables. If you come in because of pain, the length of time and variance of pain will determine how many treatments you need to significantly reduce the pain. However, you should feel some relief after one or two treatments. Acupuncture treatments have a layering effect, each treatment adding to the last. Therefore, I encourage all new patients to come in weekly for the first five treatments and then we will reassess together.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. Licensed acupuncturists are required to pass and be certified in the Clean Needle Technique exam that ensures safety of the treatment. I use only sterilized, individually packed, disposable needles that are discarded after each use. They are never saved or used in multiple treatments, which eliminates the possibility of transmitting a communicable disease by a contaminated needle. |