F.A.Q

1. What is Acupuncture? Acupuncture is a four thousand year old medicine It works by stimulating specific points under the skin with very fine needles. it stimulates the body to heal itself by resolving underlying imbalances in the body's 'qi' (energy).

2. Is it Painful? Acupuncture is usually not painful. Some patients are more sensitive than others and they may feel slight discomfort only on needle insertion. Acupuncture needles are very thin. It is common to feel some pressure, numbness, warmth or a "funny sensation." If you experience pain during acupuncture please let the practitioner know, usually that can be alleviated by a slight adjustment of the needle. Most people start to feel very relaxed and comfortable during the treatment, and describe acupuncture as a pleasant and often euphoric experience.

3. Is it Safe? Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years. We only use single-use, disposable, acupuncture needles. They come in a sterile package which is opened at the start of the treatment. After the treatment the needle is discarded. All our practitioners have completed years of training, internship, and a number of board exams to achieve certification and license status. Their extensive training and years of practice since can ensure that each needle is placed with care and consideration.

4. What will my first treatment be like? At your first visit you will spend time with your practitioner talking about your health history and your current concern. Then you will recline or lay down to receive the acupuncture treatment. During treatment, most people begin to feel very relaxed. Most people experience a sense of calmness and immediate relief or decrease of symptoms. Some people are very nervous before their first treatment. That is OK! We will be happy to talk you through the process and answer any questions as we go along. People find that the process is much easier and more gentle than they had ever expected.

5. Are there possible side effects? Small, localized bruises from minor bleeding under the skin are infrequent, but do occur. These are no cause for alarm, and despite the cosmetic inconvenience, they actually provide a kind of bonus treatment. The re-absorption of the blood continues the stimulation of the acupuncture point even without the needle in place. Sometimes you may have a slight sensation of where the needle had been that will last from 20 minutes after the treatment to as much as a day or so after. This is not unusual, and as always, if anything causes you concern or if you have questions don't hesitate to contact us.

6. How long do the treatment take? Plan to be here for between one to one and a half hours. The length of the treatment depends on the individual conditions of the patient. The first treatment may take longer because of the additional time the practitioner spends on an intake of health history.

7. How many treatments will I need? Unfortunately there is no clear answer to this. Depending on the problem, the severity, and how long that problem has been going on the amount of treatments needed may vary greatly. Additionally, different people respond differently. Some people are much better after a single treatment, while others may not see great improvements until after 3 or more treatments. I will be happy to give you more detailed information about this per your particular case during a phone consultation or at an initial visit.

8. Can I claim a health fund rebate? Yes. We can provide you with a receipt to claim from your health fund. The amount you receive back varies depending on the individual fund. You can't claim through medicare.

9. What Conditions Can Acupuncture Be Helpful For?

Acupuncture can be helpful in supporting overall health and wellbeing.

Some conditions which it may be useful for, in supporting healing include:

Headaches
Inflammation
Digestive issues
Back aches
Insomnia
Depression
Anxiety
Menstruation
Pre-natal health
Birth induction
Post-natal health

Infertility
Stress relief