- How do I schedule an appointment?
To schedule an appointment for acupuncture treatment and/or Chinese herbal medicine, contact me via email or online booking (most convenient).
- What to expect from my first acupuncture treatment and how do I prepare?
Your first acupuncture treatment consists of an initial interview and treatment in total of one hour where a treatment plan is discussed. Needles are inserted and left in the body for 10-30 minutes while you relax. Herbal consults are included in the initial intake if desired. In preparing for your treatment please wear loose fitting clothing, avoid alcohol or stimulants, heavy perfumes and do not have an empty stomach before treatment.
- Is acupuncture covered by private health insurance?
Many health funds cover acupuncture therapy, you need to check your coverage. Enquire with your provider about adding coverage if it is not included in your plan. Most funds allow electronic rebates at the time of your treatment. You will need to bring your phone and health care card with you.
- What do acupuncture needles look like?
Needles are hair thin, solid, sterile and single use only. Approximately 15 acupuncture needles can fit into a hollow hypodermic needle used for taking blood. Acupuncture needles vary in length and thickness depending on the location and condition being treated.
If you’ve experienced tattoos or getting your blood drawn, you have likely experienced more pain than you will with acupuncture. Acupuncture can be quite relaxing. Everyone experiences acupuncture needles differently, some describe it as a pinch akin to a mosquito bite, others can’t feel them. Common therapeutic sensations you may feel during a treatment are feelings of warmth, heaviness at the site of a needle, or tingling. These are often short lasting.
- How long do I have to get acupuncture for?
Every body is different, you will have a unique treatment plan with frequency of visits. Treatments are generally classified as acute symptom relief (more frequent visits), restorative care (no acute symptoms and less frequent treatments), or continuing care (longer term support with monthly visits). Each treatment builds on itself creating a cumulative effect. Usually four visits will give me an idea if this is the correct avenue for you or not.
- Can I still get acupuncture if I’m afraid of needles?
Don’t shy away from acupuncture if you don’t like needles. Treatments can employ non-needle therapies such as cupping, moxibustion heat therapy, Tui-na (Chinese massage) and/or Chinese herbs.
- What’s the difference between Chinese and Japanese acupuncture?
Chinese and Japanese acupuncture styles differ in the way the practitioner diagnoses and treats your condition. Typically, Chinese style acupuncture diagnoses using your pulse, tongue and symptoms. Japanese style acupuncture typically uses your pulse, abdominal and body palpation for diagnosis. Japanese treatments use gentler needling which is beneficial if you are sensitive to or have fear of needles.
