Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the insertion of tine needles into the body at specific points in the treatment of specific disorders. These points have been mapped by the Chinese over a period of 2000 years. Recently their location has been confirmed by research.

How deep do the needles go?
That depends upon the nature of the problem. The underlying anatomy of the points depends on the patient size, age and upon the acupuncturist’s style or school of training. In general needles are inserted from 0.5cm to 2.5cms in depth.

Does it hurt?
Acupuncture should be painless. However, if the correct stimulus of the needle has been obtained, the patient can feel some cramping, or electric sensation either around the needle or travelling up or down the affected energy pathway or meridian. In any case, if there is any discomfort it is usually mild and the therapist should be informed.

How many treatments will I need?
That depends upon the duration, severity and nature of each individual’s complaint. Many acute conditions may only require a single treatment some degenerative conditions may require more treatments, however the patient has the right to expect that their major complaint will be addressed and treated in a direct and timely manner.

What can I expect after treatment? 
One may experience partial or total relief of their pain or other symptoms. This relief may last or some of the pain may return. In a few cases, the pain may seem worse; this is called the rebound effect. By the next day, the pain can be expected to have gradually improved often the most dramatic results are experienced in the first treatment; one should see further improvement after each subsequent treatment.

***Obtained from the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario***

Symptoms treated with Acupuncture can include but are not limited to:

Ashleigh Worley, R.Ac

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