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What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?

Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed.  Some people feel the initial pinch of the needle insertion while others do not, certain point are also more sensitive than others, such as those on the fingers and toes versus those on the abdomen.  After needles are inserted it is common to feel a tingling, buzzing, tickling, heavy or pulling sensation at the needle site, this sensation is called "De Qi" and signifies the arrival of vital Qi to the area.  

Moxibustion is applying a smoldering herb to acupuncture points, this is done either indirectly or directly.  The indirect method uses a rolled moxa stick which the end is lit and placed near the points and never touches the skin, the patient will feel a warm sensation which is quite pleasant.  The direct method involves rolling very small, rice grain sized moxa cones, these are placed directly on the skin and lit with an incense stick, as the cone burns down it gets warmer and when it gets to the right level the practitioner removes it.  This is also pleasant feeling to the patient but has a slight risk of burning the skin if the cone is not put out in time.

Is It Safe?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners in 1996. The FDA requires that sterile, nontoxic needles be used and that they be labeled for single use by qualified practitioners only.

Relatively few complications from the use of acupuncture have been reported to the FDA in light of the millions of people treated each year and the number of acupuncture needles used.  Practitioners should use a new set of disposable needles taken from a sealed package for each patient and should swab treatment sites with alcohol or another disinfectant before inserting needles. When not delivered properly, acupuncture can cause serious adverse effects, including infections and punctured organs.

When Can I Expect Results?
Most people will feel some effect from the treatment almost instantaneously, this effect can be as simple as relaxation or an energizing feeling to a more dramatic relief of pain or other symptoms.  Every patient and every treatment is different, so there is no hard and fast rule as to when or how dramatic results will be.  A general guideline may be that the more acute the problem the more successful and faster results may be elicited.  This is not to say chronic ailments can not be helped by acupuncture, they most definitely can!  Results can often be more dramatic in the first few treatments but fade away more quickly, this is why follow up treatments are key to acupuncture therapy.  With follow up treatments we can ensure the benefits of your treatment will last longer and be more effective.  Again, everyone is different and Kim will discuss your treatment protocol at your first appointment.  In general, 6 treatments are recommended to start your acupuncture therapy before re-evaluation, 10 consecutive weekly treatments are the protocol for Cosmetic Acupuncture.