FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?
Licensed acupuncturists spend thousands of hours learning the human anatomy and acupuncture technique. Some common potential adverse events from acupuncture include soreness or itchiness at the insertion point, mild bruising around the insertion point, and general body soreness similar to how you may feel after a deep tissue massage. In very rare cases organ puncture can occur, but this risk is dramatically reduced with proper training. It is always important to find a licensed acupuncturist. Your practitioner should explain all the potential adverse events at your first appointment. Acupuncture needles are also sterile, single use needles, that are disposed of immediately after use.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY ACUPUNCTURE APPOINTMENT?
Wear loose comfortable clothes: it is best if we can easily get to the area of concern to inspect, evaluate, and treat (gowns will be provided if needed).
Eat something before your appointment: acupuncture can lower your blood pressure an cause you to become lightheaded. Please eat something, even a small snack, within 2 hours before your appointment.
Ask questions: feel free to ask any questions you have before or during your first appointment. We want you to be comfortable with your treatment so please let us know if you have any concerns.
DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?
Acupuncture needles are about the thickness of a cat whisker. Everyone's pain tolerance is different and different areas of the body are more sensitive than others. Most patients will feel a small pinch or prick when the needle is inserted which may be followed by a sensation of tightness, pulling, heaviness, or warmth. Your practitioner should comunicate what to expect at your first visit.