FAQ

What should I expect during my first visit?

On your first visit, you will be asked to complete a health history questionnaire. I will also complete a detailed intake, focusing on your main complaint as well as completing a review of the systems of the body. The intake will also include an assessment of your tongue and pulse and may also include a palpation of your abdomen. After gathering this information, I will formulate an initial diagnosis and treatment strategy. You will then relax on a comfortable massage table. Treatment will begin with the strategic insertion of thin, sterile, disposable needles. You can expect to receive about 30 minutes of acupuncture treatment during your hour visit.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is completely safe when conducted by a licensed practitioner. In Oregon, acupuncturists are required to attend a rigorous three to four year course of study, and to pass national board exams prior to practicing. Although there are typically no side effects to acupuncture, a patient should be forthcoming in disclosing any medical conditions. I promote the highest standards of safety by complying with OSHA regulations, practicing universal precautions, and using only stainless steel, sterile, disposable needles.

How does acupuncture work?

According to Chinese medicine theory, acupuncture works primarily by promoting the free movement of energy in the body, stagnation of which causes pain and/or illness. Western scientific research has shown that acupuncture causes the production of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. However, acupuncture is used for many conditions besides pain. More recent research has shown that the stimulation of certain acupuncture points can activate specific regions of the brain, which then allows regulation of other systems in the body through modulation of molecules such as neurotransmitters and hormones. In general, scientific research has shown that acupuncture can modulate all the primary systems in the body, including the nervous, endocrine and immune systems.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are much thinner than the needles used to give injections. The needles are so tiny that when they are inserted, many patients feel only a mild sensation, or sometimes nothing at all. The amount of sensation depends on the location of the point and people's individual sensitivity levels. It is generally a pleasant experience for most people, even those with a dislike of needles.

How many acupuncture treatments will I need?

The number of treatments required is determined by the patient's complaint, the underlying health of the patient, and how the patient responds to treatment. For many complaints, especially acute conditions, several treatments per week for the first 2-4 weeks are usually recommended. This allows the treatments to have cumulative effects. After this intensive period, treatments are usually given weekly. Treatment duration can be anywhere from a couple of weeks to six months or more. Some patients continue treatment on a monthly basis to prevent illness. This is in keeping with one of the basic philosophies of Chinese medicine, which is that prevention is better than cure.