Frequently
Asked Questions
1. Acupuncture:
What does it feel like? Is it painful?
2. How
long does it take?
3. Are
the needles sterile and safe?
4. How
does Qi become blocked or unbalanced?
Acupuncture:
What does it feel like? Is it painful?
Many people who have
never experienced Acupuncture believe that it's painful. They may
even
fear that Acupuncture needles will be big like the hollow needles
used to inject medicines. Nothing could be farther from the Truth.
They are very fine and flexible, producing little or no sensation.
Most are about the size of one hair from a horse's mane. A skilled
acupuncturist has learned how apply the needles quickly and certainly
in what are called "acupoints". You might possibly feel
a slight prick for a fraction of a second as it passes through the
skin but by and large you will probably feel nothing. Insertion is
very shallow and goes in only about 1/4" to 1/2" depending
on the area it's applied. Since the needles all go through acupoints
in muscle (not nerves), there is very little sensation. (Back
to Top)
How
long does it take?
The Chinese
say that a treatment is done after all acupoints are in place for
20 minutes. Most people, however, prefer at least 35 to 45 minutes
to relax and unwind. If you are sensitive, you may even feel the
energy in your body begin to tingle as it harmonizes the Qi, balancing
your entire body. Many people find themselves so relaxed as the Qi
begins to flow, they fall asleep very peacefully. (Back
to Top)
Are
the needles sterile and safe?
Yes. The government
strictly regulates the sterilization procedures used in Acupuncture.
The needles are allmanufactured in sterile environments and immediately
packaged in individually sealed plastic tubes. Needles are only used
once and then safely disposed of in sanitary containers. (Back
to Top)
How
does the Qi become blocked or unbalanced?
As each of us move
through our daily lives and routines, we encounter many variables
that can affect the flow of Qi. Here are just a few examples:
- Poor diet or nutrition
from processed foods
- Pollution from
freeways, manufacturing and industry
- Poor quality drinking
water
- Infections or diseases
- Injuries at home,
work or in sports
- Auto or motorcycle
accidents
- Excessive dampness
- Too much cold,
wind or heat
- Worry, anxiety
and stress
- Overuse of certain
muscles due to habit or work requirements
Reference:
The above information is based on information from The Acupuncture
Answer Book: America's Fastest-Growing Health Care Method. Copyright
2001 John Dirk Tousley. White Dove Publishing, Laguna Beach, CA
