This depends on the severity, duration, and nature of your complaint. Many patients experience a certain amount of relief after just one or two treatments if the problem is acute. A series of five to ten treatments can resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time. Each patient is unique.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes. This medicine has been used effectively for over 5000 years and has helped billions of people. Practitioners are licensed professionally and regulated by the state to insure regulatory compliancy. All licensed acupuncturists today use sterile, disposable, individually packaged needles and have a Clean Needle Certificate.
Do acupuncture needles hurt?
The tiny, fine, flexible needles used in acupuncture are nothing like the hypodermic needles used in western medicine for injections. In fact, you can fit about 10 acupuncture needles inside one hypodermic needle. Once the needles are inserted, you may experience a fullness, tingling, or a light dull ache along with a sense of relaxation.
What education does an oriental medicine practitioner receive?
US trained practitioners require a Bachelor’s degree before being accepted into a four year master’s program for the study of Oriental Medicine, which includes acupuncture and Chinese herbs. There is a national certification available and additionally, each state has different acupuncture regulations. In Arizona, the State of Arizona Acupuncture Board of Examiners issues and monitors all licenses that are renewed yearly and require Continuing Education Hours.
Do I need to do anything during my treatment?
Treatments are most effective when you are able to relax. Discuss any concerns and voice any individual needs so that your practitioner is able to give you the best treatment possible. Also, do not make position changes without the assistance of your practitioner.
What research is available?
Lots of research is available and more is being done all the time. Please let us know if you would like information on a specific condition or area.
I have read about "gu syndrome in traditional chinese medicine. What is that and do you treat that?
Gu Syndrome is the idea that there is a hidden "pathogen" stuck inside the body. This pathogen can be a virus, bacteria, mold, fungi, or parasite. Yes, we do treat this at our clinic through a combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbal therapy. To read more in depth about Gu Syndrome, click here.