First time acupuncture patients feel as if they are trying something new and different. The truth is, they are about to experience the benefits of an age-old treatment, shown to effectively relieve pain, anxiety, and a host of other conditions.
At Precision Healing And Wellness we honor the opportunity to help guide you on your journey of self-healing, and begin by answering some commonly asked acupuncture questions.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment that is used to correct an imbalance of energy in the body, relieving symptoms of pain, and other chronic conditions. Thin needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points to stimulate the nervous system, and open healing energy pathways. According to western medicine, when the acupuncture needle stimulates a nerve, a message is sent to the brain for the release of natural, and therapeutic hormones. Thus, acupuncture is considered a self-healing treatment.
What Is Acupuncture Used to Treat?
Acupuncture is best known to help treat pain, and as reported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is often covered for specific uses by insurance companies. In addition, acupuncture is known to help relieve symptoms associated with respiratory diseases, eye disorders, arthritis, diarrhea, gastritis, nausea, colitis, migraines and other neurologic disorders, stress, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Is Acupuncture Painful?
Acupuncture needles are quite different from hypodermic needles for shots. Acupuncture needles are hair thin, therefore patients should feel no pain during treatment. In fact, many patients settle into a deep state of relaxation, and fall asleep on the treatment table.
That is not to say you won’t feel anything. Some reported sensations include: a warm and pleasant feeling, a calming weight or tingling at the treatment site, an initial jolt or slight ache that quickly dissipates.
Where do You Insert the Acupuncture Needles?
Needles are inserted to correspond with specific acupuncture points along 12 meridians in the body. The placement will vary with the condition you are treating. That said, needles are commonly inserted at or near the elbows, knees, back, abdomen, and ears.
What Will My First Treatment be Like?
Before a licensed acupuncturist starts treatment, the practitioner should complete a health history including familial traits, current health challenges, past treatments, and lifestyle. The clinician will check the pulse of the patient, evaluate the tongue, and palpate along certain meridians to identify tender areas. At this point, the treatment can begin. The initial visit will last a little longer than subsequent appointments, or about 90 minutes.
Will Acupuncturists Work with Traditional Doctors?
It is a good idea to inquire, before beginning acupuncture treatments, about the clinician’s comfort working in tandem with other health care professionals. Many traditional physicians suggest acupuncture to complement western treatments. At Precision, we welcome the opportunity to confer with other health care providers, delivering optimal results to our patients.
Is Acupuncture Safe to Use When Pregnant?
Acupuncture is safely used to help relieve many conditions associated with pregnancy, including back and pelvic pain, nausea and vomiting, and depression. That said, it is important to discuss the use of acupuncture with all or your health care advisors prior to beginning treatment. This may include an OBGYN, fertility specialist, midwife, and licensed acupuncturist.
Will I Need Multiple Treatments for My Condition?
The simple answer is yes. While a single treatment may provide reprieve from symptoms, strong and prolonged relief will require several visits. One or two visits per week may be suggested for best results, with a total of six to eight treatments. The schedule of visits will vary depending upon what is being treated, and the severity of the condition.
Contact Us for More Information
We’re known for our trusted staff, expertise, and our compassionate, holistic approach to care. Clients find comfort and relief in our services, including acupuncture, massage, and related treatments. At Precision, we are licensed acupuncturists with years of experience, and insight. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions, or to book an appointment online. Our practice is located in Brookfield, conveniently off I-94 and just minutes from downtown Milwaukee.
We wish you the best on your path to wellness, and look forward to meeting you!
