What is Acupuncture?

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Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine which is gaining more and more popularity as our culture discovers its potential for improving vitality. During a treatment, very thin, solid, hairlike needles are inserted at specific points on the body. The stimulation of these acupuncture points affects both the central and peripheral nervous systems. It triggers the release of the body’s internal chemicals such as endorphins and enkephalins, which have pain-relieving properties.

 

Does Acupuncture hurt?

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This is the most common question asked about acupuncture because many people associate needles with pain. Acupuncture needles are about the thickness of a dog’s whisker, so they are virtually painless when inserted. After insertion, the needle will be brought to the appropriate depth. You will then usually feel a very unique sensation that can vary from tingling, to heaviness, to warmth, or nothing at all. Each person’s experience is different. Should you experience any discomfort, let me know, and I will adjust the needles accordingly. All needles are sterilised and single use disposable.

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Will my private health insurance cover my treatments?

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This will depend upon the scope of your private health insurance “Extras Cover”. Please check with your insurer if unsure. We are able to electronically process your claim immediately after your treatment so you will only be required to pay the difference between the treatment cost and health insurance rebate provided by your insurer.

 

Do I need a GP referral?

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No, you don’t need a referral from your doctor to see an acupuncturist.

 

How can I get the most out of my treatments?

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The positive effects of acupuncture begin at your first visit. As you progress through a course of acupuncture therapy, we expect the level of symptom relief, and the time period of increased improvement following each treatment, will become more pronounced, until your body holds the changes on its own. It is important to be consistent with frequent visits at the beginning of care in order to build momentum and maintain the progress you make from visit to visit.

 

How often do I have to come?

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Treatments are done on a weekly basis, usually three times a week for the first two weeks, twice a week for a month or so, and once a week after that. However this is based and assessed on your individual health needs. Once the condition has been controlled and you are symptom-free, the treatments are done less frequently. Problems that have been around for a long time usually take more treatments to resolve than ones that have come about recently. Your treatment course will be determined after the first visit and reassessed after each session.

 

How can I prepare for my session?

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It is best to eat a light meal before your appointment so that your body has energy to work with. Sometimes a person who has not eaten will feel lightheaded when receiving an acupuncture treatment. In this case, please let me know immediately and I will take the appropriate actions. It is best to wear shorts or loose clothing so that the arms and legs below the elbows and knees, as well as the abdomen, are accessible. Do not engage in strenuous activity, drink alcohol, smoke excessively, or ingest heavy meals before or after your treatment. This will allow your body to adjust to the effects of the acupuncture.

 

Can I receive Acupuncture if I am pregnant?

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Yes. Because there are some points that are contraindicated during pregnancy, it is important to let me know if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant.

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What kind of training is involved in becoming an Acupuncturist?

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Acupuncture practices are regulated by the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Registered practitioners are required to have completed a minimum 4-year degree with over 600 hours of clinical supervision. Once qualifying Acupuncturists are required to undertake continuing professional development and training to further their skills in addition to their day to day clinical experiences. In short, we have spent a long time developing our application of the art of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture.

 

More questions?

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Please call us on 0481 966 496 or send me an email. I am here to assist you.