What is acupuncture? To some people, this unique way to treat pain or improve overall wellness can be a bit extreme. Some people may assume acupuncture is a painful procedure. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting a very small needle into specific skin spots on your body that are designed to treat your area of pain or to relieve stress. This comes from the belief of following invisible lines where the “qi” flows, stimulating specific points. The acupuncture is meant to remove blockages in the flow of qi. A patient may have up to 20 needles in them at a time depending on the treatment. This is a great form of treatment if you would like to take a holistic approach to wellness. Here are a few things you should know.

Getting Started

Your initial appointment may take up to an hour. This first appointment is to determine the problematic issues that you are trying to heal, as well as an overall examination. If you have issues such as lower back pain, chronic pain, tightened muscles, or anxiety this is the step where you will address it. This helps give the patient the best treatment possible.

Placing the needles

Next, it is time to strategically place the needles. This is always done by a trained professional. Placing the needles may cause a little discomfort. Placing the needle strategically can even release the body’s endorphins. How far the needle goes in depends on the area being targeted. After all the needles are in place, they remain for around 20 minutes while you relax.

Being open-minded about this unique treatment has also shown to benefit patients. Do not give up after one session. Sometimes it takes a few appointments to relax and feel pain relief. During the session, it helps to think that the acupuncture is working and allow your mind to focus on something peaceful.

Results

As a result, a patient should see improvements in relieving pain or stress. Acupuncture works best if you stay consistent with appointments. Acupuncture may not be right for everybody. Studies have shown that acupuncture is very safe with little risk of side effects. Acupuncture can help with back pain, digestive discomfort, neck pain, headaches,infertility and much more.

Patients should also see if their insurance will cover acupuncture treatment before coming in. Most insurances will cover this if it is related to a medical issue.

If this sounds like something that could benefit your health, please schedule an appointment with Sean’s Massage Center.