FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions commonly asked about treatment with Traditional Acupuncture:
Q: How well does Traditional Acupuncture work?
A: There's an increasing body of well-researched evidence that Traditional Acupuncture helps people with many conditions. The Acupuncture Research Resource Centre publishes a list of all the up-to-date research on Acupuncture.
Q: Don't the needles hurt?
A: The needles used are much finer than the traditional hypodermic needles used for vaccinations and blood tests. Discomfort on insertion is minimised, and many people report feeling relaxed and calm after treatment.
Q: What should I wear to the clinic?
A: Any loose comfortably fitting clothes are fine.
Q: Will I need to get undressed?
A: It's common to remove socks and shoes, otherwise treatment is usually carried out with minor adjustment of clothing. Occasionally it is necessary to go down to underwear, in which case towels are provided and modesty suitably respected.
Q: How many sessions will I need?
A: It varies by person. A typical course of treatment is around 4-6 sessions, but longer-standing conditions will probably require more.
Q: Will I need to tell my doctor that I am receiving Acupuncture?
A: If your doctor is currently treating you, then you should mention it to him/her. If not, we may agree that your doctor should be informed, depending upon your condition: however, the final choice is yours.
Q: Should I stop taking prescribed medication?
A: It's possible - sometimes desirable - that treatment will reduce your need for medication, but it should never be changed unless agreed first by your doctor.
Q: Is Acupuncture suitable for pregnant women?
A: Yes - an increasing number of pregnant women are using Acupuncture as a treatment of choice for conditions such as back pain, anxiety and breech presentation. It is safe providing certain points are avoided.
