At Above & Beyond Acupuncture in Scottsdale, AZ, we are often presented with the same queries regarding the procedures of acupuncture. We’ve decided to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about acupuncture to help provide information that would be helpful to those interested.
How often should I get acupuncture?
After completing the first acupuncture treatment, the practitioner will discuss the treatment and suggest how often a patient should return for follow-up sessions. While it’s not always necessary to get treatment every week, bi-weekly or monthly acupuncture sessions are highly recommended and will keep you in great physical and emotional condition.
Why do I need acupuncture?
One of the most popular questions encountered with regard to acupuncture is why would a person need a treatment if he or she is feeling well. In a previous blog post titled “Why do I Need Acupuncture,” we spent some time discussing the holistic perspective used within Traditional Chinese Medicine and how it differs from the Western medical approach. Acupuncture–and Eastern Medicine–is a more proactive approach toward health and wellness that focuses on supporting the body and promoting balance as opposed to the Western model, which tends to be more reactive. Since there is no such thing as being in perfect health, the human body is constantly expending energy trying to maintain homeostasis. By receiving acupuncture on a regular basis, the body’s resources will be replenished naturally– allowing it to perform optimally.
Does acupuncture hurt?
When patients receive acupuncture for the first time, the new sensations they experience can be hard to describe; it is a very unique and subjective experience. Often, patients report feeling a dull ache or an electric sensation around the area being needled. Very rarely, if ever, will a patient report feeling pain–and if it does hurt, the practitioner will remove the needle immediately. It is not the intention of the acupuncturist to ever elicit a painful response and the practitioner will go to great lengths to make the procedure as pleasant as possible.
How should I dress for an acupuncture treatment?
A question we commonly hear at Above & Beyond Acupuncture pertains to what types of clothing should be worn during treatment. While there is no specific dress code for acupuncture treatments, it is important to be comfortable. We recommend wearing loose-fitting garments that will enable you to relax. Some acupuncture points are located at or above the elbows and knees, so it’s helpful to wear clothing that can be moved around easily. Tight-fitting pants and shirts can potentially become an obstacle, so we suggest you avoid them or bring a change of clothes with you.
Should I eat before an acupuncture treatment?
It is generally a good idea to have a light snack or small meal. We do not suggest eating a large amount of food before coming in for acupuncture. Eating a heavy meal before a treatment will force the body to focus its energy and attention on digestion. While this is necessary to process your meal, it can inhibit the ability of the acupuncture treatment to help promote healing. We suggest that if you are hungry, eat a small snack–ideally some vegetables or a piece of fruit that is healthy and easy to digest.
Are acupuncture needles reusable?
Acupuncturists at Above & Beyond Acupuncture only use disposable needles. Acupuncture needles are only used once and then are disposed of properly in a medical waste container. At no point and under no circumstance are needles ever reused for any reason whatsoever.
