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Acupuncture FAQs

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a treatment for painful or chronic conditions. Acupuncture makes use of extremely thin, sterile needles inserted into the body in specific places, known as acupuncture points or acupoints. Acupuncture needles are used to manipulate the energy in the body, known as the Qi (pronounced “chee”). Acupuncture promotes natural self-healing by stimulating the Qi and re-establishing balance within the body.

Where are the acupuncture points?

There are thousands of acupuncture points on the body. These points are connected by meridians that serve as pathways for the energy to travel from the surface of the body to the internal organs.

How do acupuncturists decide which points in the body to insert needles?

Different styles of acupuncture require the practitioner to insert the needles into different locations. The practitioner may insert the needle into a location close to your pain, or far away from it. The energy in your body will travel to the necessary location regardless.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is not supposed to hurt very much, if at all. Patients of acupuncture may sometimes feel a pinching sensation when the needle is inserted, but this is not the typical response. In fact, when acupuncture hurts and continues to hurt with a burning or prolonged pinching sensation, patients are advised to share this feeling with the practitioner, as this could be an indication that the needles need adjustment. Once the needle is in your body, you may feel many sensations, including tingling or pressure. These feelings are an indication that the acupuncture is working and is often viewed positively.

Does acupuncture cause patients to bleed?

In general, no. Sometimes a drop of blood may appear when a needle is removed, but in most of the time there is little danger of bleeding as a result of acupuncture.

What conditions does acupuncture help?

Acupuncture helps many conditions. However, the most common conditions that acupuncture treats includes insomnia, chronic pain, joint problems, muscle problems, migraines, anxiety and depression.

How long does it take acupuncture to work?

For some people, acupuncture will have an immediate effect. For others, it can take a while before the benefits of acupuncture become apparent. The speed with which acupuncture works depends on the type of condition being treated, the health of the patient and how long the condition has existed.

Can someone be too young or too old to get acupuncture?

Acupuncture is for people of all ages. From newborns to the very elderly, people of all ages can benefit from acupuncture. If you have concerns about bringing in a very old or very young patient, speak with your practitioner to find out what acupuncture can do for him or her.

For more information about acupuncture, contact Backsmart Wellness Center. Our skilled and experienced practitioners are available to answer whatever questions you may have. If you’re interested in trying acupuncture for the first time call us at 732-661-1121 to schedule an appointment today!

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