What Conditions are Treatable? Medical Acupuncture is a system which can influence three areeas of health care: Promotion of health and well-being; Prevention of illness; Treatment of various medical conditions.

Acupuncture is often associated with pain control, and can be effective as the only treatment used or in conjunction with other medical treatments. The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of medical concerns, including:

  • Digestive issues such as gastritis, hyper-acidity, spastic colon, constipation and diarrhea.
  • Respiratory issues, such as sinusitis, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, and recurrent chest infections.
  • Neurological and muscular disorders such as headaches, facial tics, neck pain, rib neuritis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, various forms of tendonitis, low back pain, sciatica and osteoarthritis.
  • Urinary and reproductive issues.
  • Physical problems related to tension, stress, and emotional issues.
How Many Treatments Will I Need? The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long standing conditions, one or two treatments per week for several months may be recommended. for acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health maintenance, four sessions a year may be all that is necessary.
Are There Any Side Effects? Usually not. As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetitie, sleep, bowel or urination pattern, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work.

It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.

Do the Needles Hurt? Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid, and made from stainless steel. The point is smooth (not hollow with cutting edges like a hypodermic needle) and insertion through the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling. The risk of bruising and skin irritation is less than when using a hollow needle. The doctor will sterilize the needles using the same techniques as for surgical instruments or will use disposable needles so there is no risk of infection from the treatments.
Does Acupuncture Really Work? Yes. In the past 2,000 years, more people have been successfully treated with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Today, acupuncture is practiced in Asia, the now disbanded Soviet Union, Europe, and is being used more and more in Ameica by patients and physicians.

Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time as other techniques are being used, such as conventional Western medicine, osteopathic or chiropractic adjustments, and homeopathic or naturopathic prescriptions. It is important that your physician-acupuncturist know everything that you are doing, so he or she can help you get the most benefits from your treatments.

Do I Have to Believe in Acupuncture for it to Work? No. Acupuncture is used successfully on cats, dogs, horses and other animals. These animal patients do not understand or believe in the process that helps them get better. A positive attitude toward wellness may reinforce the effects of the treatment received, just as a negative attitude may hinder the effects of acupuncture or any other treatment. A neutral attitude ("I don't know if I can really belive in this.") will not block treatment results.
Is There More Information I Can Read? Yes. In addition to our About Acupuncture page, you may click the More Info option here or at the top of the page to go to the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture Website.