WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?

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Acupuncture works by stimulating your body’s natural energy flow which allows it to function smoothly and efficiently.  Any disruption or blockage of the circulatory, neurological or lymphatic system may result in an unbalance in the body (ie. decrease function or pain).  Acupuncture aims to correct this flow of energy, and thereby restore function and balance within the body. 

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COMMON USES FOR ACUPUNCTURE

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• Mental-Emotional: Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Insomnia

• Respiratory System: Acute Bronchitis, Asthma, Sinusitis, Common Cold, Allergies

• Gastro-intestinal Disorders: Acid Reflux, Gastritis, Ulcer (pain relief), Constipation, Diarrhea

• Neurological and Musculoskeletal Disorders: Headache and migraine, Trigeminal neuralgia (TMJ), Peripheral neuropathies, Bedwetting, “Frozen shoulder”, “Tennis elbow”, Sciatica, Low-back pain, Osteoarthritis

• Gynecological Issues: Infertility, Sexual dysfunction (low libido, erectile dysfunction), Breech position in pregnancy, Induction of labour

• Cancer Treatments: Adverse reactions to radiotherapy and chemotherapy

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WHAT DOES ACUPUNCTURE FEEL LIKE?

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Once the needles are inserted into the acupuncture point, it is common to experience a sensation of warmth, tingling or tightness in the area.  Other sensations include numbness, a mild electrical sensation that lasts for a few seconds, soreness, pulsation like waves.  

 Common physical reactions to an acupuncture treatment are feeling of light-headedness, slight disorientation and/or euphoria after the treatment.  Therefore, it is very important to get up slowly from the treatment. 

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POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

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Side effects are rare, however, the occasional patient may experience slight bruising at the point of needle insertion.  If a patient is extremely nervous about using needles, is fatigued or is experiencing low blood sugar, they may experience a drop in blood pressure.  Any questions and concerns will be discussed during your initial consultation.

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WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR INITIAL ASSESSMENT

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We will ask you A LOT of Questions to assess your overall health

• The questions will relate to your current symptoms, past treatments, patient and family medical history, diet, digestive system, sleeping patterns and emotional health

• Your pulse will be taken on both wrists

• We will look at your tongue

• After this, all the data will be pulled together to come up with a treatment plan

• We will discuss your treatment options, and chose the most appropriate treatment plan for you

• You will receive your first treatment

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BEFORE YOUR INITIAL ASSESSMENT/TREATMENT

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• Write down and bring any questions you have, as we are here to help you

• For a proper tongue diagnosis:

  • Avoid brushing your tongue before treatment

  • Try not to consume beverages that may stain your tongue, such as coffee and candies

• Do not eat large meals just before or after your visit, however, a small snack is recommended

• Be honest when answering questions, all answers are confidential and aide in your treatment

• Our treatment sessions are minimally 30 minutes in length so please use the bathroom prior

• Do not consume alcoholic beverages before or after treatment

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AFTER YOUR INITIAL ASSESSMENT/TREATMENT

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• Slowly get up from the table as you could feel slightly light-headed and/or dizzy

• DRINK PLENTY of WARM water to help eliminate toxins out of the body

• Avoid using Ice and Cold packs as they will slow the progress made during the treatment

• We recommend that you try to relax after so you can feel the whole benefit of each treatment

• Pay attention to your Emotions – some people can feel a bit more emotional or more sensitive after so be kind to yourself and allow any emotions to come up so it can then be released

• Between visits, take note of any changes that may have occurred, so you can report back to your acupuncturist at your next appointment