Frequently Asked Questions

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

The acupuncture treatments themselves typically do not hurt. Occasionally you will feel a pinching sensation as the needles are inserted. With the needles in place, you may feel pressure, tingling, or aching. This is the Qi in the body and is the desired response. It is not expected to be uncomfortable or painful. The sensation of receiving an acupuncture treatment can rarely be described as painful. Now that is not to say that it is devoid of sensation. But, generally, the feeling is more of a tingling. Acupuncture needles have a doweled end and therefore do not cut the skin as regular injection needles do. If you do experience any pain or discomfort, advice your practitioner immediately, as your needles may need to be adjusted.

How does it work?

Although many theories have been presented, there is still no easy answer as to exactly how acupuncture works. The “Gate Control” theory suggests that pain impulses are blocked from reaching the spinal cord or brain at various “gates” to these areas. Since a majority of acupuncture points are either located near, or connected to neural structures, this suggests that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system to “shut the gate” to the sensation of pain. Other theories suggest that acupuncture stimulates the body to produce narcotic-like substances such as endorphins and opioids which, when released into the body, relieve pain. One thing is certain, although we may not know precisely how it works, studies have shown that it does work for a large majority of people and conditions.

What is Acupuncture? What does it treat?

Acupuncture is an ancient method of medicine that uses the body’s energy or Qi to treat conditions such as pain, dizziness, nausea, chronic conditions, post-stroke paralysis, drug and alcohol addiction, etc. Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile, single-use needles placed in specific locations around the body to manipulate that energy. There are acupuncture points all over the body, including the face and scalp. Where you will have needles placed will depend on your signs and symptoms.

The needles, which have a rounded end rather than a sharp cutting one, are inserted into the points and are then manipulated with a gentle pumping action, by twirling or leaving in place for a few minutes. These motions stimulate the flow of energy and remove blockages so that the qi can be dispersed and regulated. When the qi is flowing properly throughout the body, the balance is restored and improved health results. Other modalities used in treatment can include electro-stimulation, cupping.

How should I prepare?

Come with any questions you have, we’re here to help you.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
Don’t eat large meals just before or after your visit.
Refrain from overexertion, drugs, or alcohol for up to 6 hours after the visit.
Avoid stressful situation. Make time to relax and be sure to get plenty of rest.
Between visits, take notes of any changes that you may have experienced.

What is Floating Acupuncture

Fu’s Subcutaneous Needling (FSN), originating from traditional Chinese acupuncture, is a therapeutic approach for localised diseases, especially for painful musculoskeletal disorders. This technique, along with the FSN needle, was invented by Dr. Zhonghua Fu in 1996. This procedure is performed by inserting a special trocar needle into the subcutaneous layer around the afflicted (dysfunctional muscles) spot to achieve the desired effect. In some cases, FSN can provide immediate and significant relief of the pain in trigger points (TrPs) more effectively than anaesthesia.

FSN abstains from the muscle and deep fascia layers and is confined to only the subcutaneous layer where collagen fibers are most abundant. As the subcutaneous layer (connective tissue immediately beneath the skin) has a low nerve supply, there is less pain than with other needling therapies.