How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture involves the placement of hair-thin needles at specific points along the body. The needles are inserted just below the skin, where they promote the flow of blood and oxygen and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Traditionally the needles have been used to help control the flow of vital energy (qi) through the body. Today, acupuncture is used to relieve pain and stress to restore health, balance, and wellness.
Acupuncture is used to treat a number of conditions. In addition to chronic pain, acupuncture is used to treat:
- Lower back pain
- Sprains
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Allergies
- High blood pressure
- Depression
- Migraines
- Anxiety
- Osteoarthritis
- Menstrual cramps and PMS
- Insomnia
- Morning sickness
In China, acupuncture is used to treat just about everything. In the West, it’s considered to be a form of alternative medicine. Acupuncture is often used to complement conventional medical treatment for health conditions like cancer, diabetes, and sports injuries.
When conventional medical treatment doesn’t get the desired results, patients often turn to acupuncture as an alternative to medications and other interventions. You may be considering trying acupuncture to treat your personal condition. What can you expect from your first acupuncture treatment?
Your First Acupuncture Session at QualityAcu
When conventional medical treatment doesn’t get the desired results, patients often turn to acupuncture as an alternative to medications and other interventions. You may be considering trying acupuncture to treat your personal condition. What can you expect from your first acupuncture treatment?
Your first appointment will likely last between 60 and 90 minutes.
Before you arrive for your appointment, make sure you drink lots of water. Eat a light, healthy meal a few hours before the appointment. You’ll want to avoid any feelings of hunger, lightheadedness or dizziness during the session.
The acupuncturist will start the session by performing an exam. They’ll discuss your medical history and perform a physical exam that includes checking your pulse and the shape and color of your tongue. This will allow the acupuncturist to devise a personalized treatment plan that addresses your symptoms and concerns.
Depending on where you need help, you may be asked to sit, lie on your back, or lie on your stomach. You might have to partially disrobe to give the acupuncturist access to the treatment area. They may dim the lights and put on quiet music to help you relax.
The acupuncturists will gently swab the treatment area. The needles are placed in specific areas (call acupoints) to address your particular concern or condition. The insertion of the needles causes little or no discomfort.
You’ll generally “wear” the needles for anywhere from fifteen to thirty minutes. During that time the acupuncturist may twist or manipulate the needles to increase the effectiveness of the treatment. The acupuncturist will monitor your condition to ensure your comfort.
The acupuncturist will remove the needles. Everyone responds differently to the experience. Some people feel immediate relief, while others require a few sessions for notable improvement. Depending on the condition, you may have to return for additional treatments.
Schedule Your Appointment at QualityAcu Today!
Licensed acupuncturist Greg G. Maruki (L.Ac, MAOM) provides safe, effective acupuncture treatments to manage pain and restore energy and balance. If conventional medical treatments are working for you, maybe it’s time to consider acupuncture as an alternative means to relieve your pain and discomfort.
Schedule your appointment at Orange, CA acupuncture clinic QualityAcu today. We always welcome new patients. You can reach us by using our online form or call us at 714-532-2827. Our office hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM. QualityAcu is conveniently located at 2832 E. Chapman Ave.,. We accept most PPO insurance. and always welcome new patients.
