WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM AN ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT?
Being informed and understanding what to expect from Acupuncture treatment from the beginning will make you feel more comfortable about the experience.
DETERMINE YOUR GOALS
Are you looking for a Primary Health Care Practitioner or someone who will work with your current physician? Are you seeking short-term treatment for a specific complaint or do you want a prevention-oriented, holistic approach to the health of mind, body, and spirit that Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can provide? Do you have a work-related injury that is covered by Workers’ Compensation?
SELECT A PRACTITIONER
Ask friends, relatives, your doctor or your health plan for a referral to a reputable practitioner. You can access a list of professional associations or verify a license through the California Acupuncture Board. Once you have some names, call the practitioners’ office and ask questions. Find out about their training, length of practice, which aspects of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine they employ, any specializations and their experiences in treating your ailments.
ACUPUNCTURE DIAGNOSIS
An Acupuncturist’s diagnosis is determined in part using methods similar to other health care practitioners: asking their patients for a thorough history of their health, diet, exercise pattern, and chief complaints; performing a physical exam, ordering laboratory tests, X-rays or MRIs; and making a referral to a specialist, as necessary. However, the Acupuncturist also uses unique diagnostic techniques, such as taking the patient’s pulse on both wrists and observing the tongue, complexion, and other signs. The three pulses felt on each wrist are thought to correspond to certain organs and functions. The practitioner should explain the nature of your problem, the recommended treatment plan and an anticipated prognosis.
TREATMENT PROCEDURES
Modern Acupuncture needles are stainless steel, between one-half and three inches long, ultra-fine and quite flexible. They are pre-sterilized, non-toxic, and disposable single use. When the needles are tapped into the skin, there may not be any sensation. Much depends on the location, the condition being treated, and the Acupuncturist’s technique. Needles are typically placed in several acu-points and are usually left in about 20-40 minutes. The goal is to normalize the circulation of Qi and Blood by stimulating the energy points, which encourages the body’s natural healing process. Stimulation can be done by rotating the needles manually or attaching electrodes to send weak electric current through the needle.
The number of treatments depends upon the duration, severity and nature of your health condition. Two or three treatments may be sufficient for an acute condition, while a series of 5 to 15 treatments may be needed to resolve chronic conditions. Some degenerative conditions may require ongoing treatments over a long period of time
Techniques used may include: moxibustion, cupping, auricular therapy, tui-na, and Acupressure.
Patients should evaluate their progress after each session. Some relief should be apparent in two to three sessions, or six to eight sessions for more pervasive conditions.. If you see encouraging signs, stick with it. Ask you practitioner questions about your treatment and improvement. If your response to treatment is not satisfactory, the practitioner may consider further diagnostic exams, modify the treatment plan, or refer to an appropriate practitioner, in necessary.
TREATMENT PRECAUTIONS
It is not recommended to have an Acupuncture treatment if you are very hungry or extremely tired.
Some bruising may occasionally occur after needling. If you have a bleeding disorder on blood-thinning medications, you should inform your Acupuncturist before undergoing treatment.
If you are pregnant or have a pacemaker, tell your Acupuncturist so that appropriate herbs and acu-points will be chosen.
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