Frequently Asked Questions
Q: WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
A: Acupuncture is part of a system of medicine commonly referred to as Traditional Chinese Medicine. Its origins can be traced back over 3000 years. For a more detailed description see the "What is Acupuncture?" page.
Q: HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?
A: Oriental medical theory takes for granted that the human body has an energetic system. The classical explanation for acupuncture is that channels of energy or "Qi" run in regular patterns through the body and over its surface. An obstruction or imbalance in the movement of this energy will cause pain, illness and ultimately disease. The stimulation of specific "points" along these channels with acupuncture needles will unblock and balance this energetic system.
Q: DOES ACUPUNCTURE CONFLICT WITH WESTERN MEDICINE?
A: No, acupuncture complements Western medicine by recognizing this energetic system as well as the other physiological systems recognized by Western medicine.
Q: WHO SHOULD SEEK THE SERVICES OF AN ACUPUNCTURIST?
A: Anyone whose health is compromised or is suffering from pain - be it physical, mental or emotional - can benefit from treatment. Through stimulation of specific points, the body is encouraged to return to a more balanced and healthy state.
Q: HOW SHOULD I CHOOSE AN ACUPUNCTURIST?
A: Today acupuncture is an acknowledged and respected field of medicine requiring formal training and licensure in order to practice. All licensed acupuncturists in New York State have met rigorous standards and are well qualified providers of care. A potential patient should be looking for an acupuncturist with experience in treating their complaint/problem and someone with whom they feel comfortable.
Q: HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE TREAT PAIN?
A: Pain is usually the result of chronic muscular tension, injury, inflammation and/or disease.
Acupuncture is one of the most effective therapies that exist for releasing muscular tension, reducing inflammation and facilitating the bodies own ability to heal.
Q: IS IT SAFE?
A: All of the needles used come pre-sterilized and are disposed of after each use. There are very specific protocols which are followed to ensure the safety of patients.
Q: DOES IT HURT?
A: Acupuncture needles are much thinner than needles used in Western medicine. Some people feel slight discomfort, while others have no sensation. Many patients enter a relaxed state during treatment.
Q: HOW MANY TREATMENTS DO I NEED?
A: The number and frequency of appointments will vary according to the nature of the problem and how the individual responds to treatment. Generally, acute problems require a shorter, more intense period of treatment, while chronic problems are treated over a longer period of time. Treatment options are discussed with patients to find mutually agreeable and therapeutically effective schedules.
Not all conditions require repeated treatment. Injuries such as sprains, strains, sore muscles, and a wide variety of sports injuries often respond well to just one or two treatments. Generally the sooner the injury is treated the better. An injury that is not treated properly may not heal, and as it is aggravated repeatedly will become a chronic problem. There is wisdom in early intervention.
A person with a pain related problem - acute or chronic - will often feel an obvious improvement with just one treatment.
