Will it hurt?
Well, there may be a short-lived surprise or electrical sensation at the initial insertion of the needle. This is known as establishing ‘De Qi’ and is important in the treatment process to direct attention.
However! After the initial surprise, there should be no more pain. I will ask after the needles are in place “is everything settled?” to be absolutely sure you are able to rest for the duration of time the needles are inserted. At any time during the treatment you are welcome to call out so I can remove any needle that may not be allowing you to sink into a comfortable space.
Are there side-effects?
The most common experience after Acupuncture is decreased symptoms connected to your main complaint. Post treatment euphoria lasts up to 4 days, this is why it is important to book weekly sessions in the beginning. During these 4 days, it is important to be aware of what triggers or re-activates your symptoms. The trigger is what we need to talk about and will be a potent source of healing from the inside out. This will help me treat you most efficiently.
Though rare, side-effects may include: bruising, electric shock (with electro-Acupuncture), bleeding, soreness, numbness, increased pain (especially in cases of stiffness, it may increase the 2 days after but should resolve completely on day 3), less intense injuries will feel better initially and will benefit from a course of treatment.
I have been trained to avoid the predictable side-effects (like bruises, bleeding), which is why I use cotton balls after removing the needles. I have been through a very rigorous program and am equipped to prevent and mitigate side-effects.
Is there a risk of infection?
Every needle I use is a single-use, sterile surgical grade stainless steel. They are also extra thin gauge, which decreases the pain involved with insertion. I swab every site before needling, I wash hands between sessions and keep a sanitary clinic. I will wear a mask upon request. There is a very low to none chance of infection, with all the preventative barriers Acupuncturists practice: it would be very difficult to cause an infection!
It is advised to not have a bath after an Acupuncture treatment; instead maybe having a nap, lightly stretching, eating a meal or being in nature.
Can I receive Acupuncture if I am pregnant?
Yes! There are certain Acupuncture points which can really help sooth, relax, decrease nausea and help with other pregnancy-related complaints. I have treated Mom’s to be during my Clinical Practicum, and they found it very beneficial.
Will you puncture my organs?
No, never! We may needle internally very close to organs. Acupuncturists never puncture organs as it is dangerous and should it happen would result in a hospital emergency. I have been trained rigorously through all the 361 regular Acupoints to know correct angle and depth so you can rest assured a treatment will not result in a visit to the ER. I have trained in addition to my College degree with Roger Langrick’s approach, which is anatomical and trigger therapy based Acupuncture.
Feel free to get in contact with me should you have any questions I missed here.
