What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of very thin needles on specific points on the body's energy pathways (meridians) to help stimulate the patient's own healing mechanism. It has been used for over 3000 years and has been shown to be extremely effective in a wide variety of acute and chronic conditions, as well as for preventive healthcare.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture works by moving Qi (chi), the vital energy or life force that has become imbalanced by physical or emotional trauma, stress, poor diet, or destructive habits. Acupuncture helps to restore the proper flow of Qi and blood in the meridians and vital organs. In doing so, the harmonious energetic balance of the body is restored.
Is acupuncture appropriate for you?
The World Health Organization has recognized that acupuncture treatments are useful for pain management, headaches, stress, addictions, digestive, respiratory, gynecological, and neurological disorders. It is beneficial as an intricate part of a comprehensive system of preventive health care and maintenance.
Does it hurt?
To obtain the correct stimulus of the needle the patient should feel one or more of the following sensations: heaviness, distention, numbness, dull ache, tingling, heat, or electric sensation, either around the needle or elsewhere on the body. Any discomfort is usually mild and brief. Most patients fall asleep during the treatment session and find it to be quite relaxing.
Are the needles clean?
Dr. Harwayne always uses sterile new needles that are used once and disposed of at the end of each treatment.
When I get an acupuncture treatment should I stop taking my medications?
No. You should never stop taking any medications unless your prescribing physician recommends it. It is possible, however, that effects of the acupuncture treatments may be slowed down.
How many treatments will I need?
Chronic conditions require more treatments. On average it is reasonable to expect a course of about 4 to 8 treatments. In some cases the number of individual treatments vary.
Why should I get acupuncture if there is nothing wrong with me?
Acupuncture can function as a preventive therapy by keeping your Qi balanced and flowing smoothly. If Qi becomes blocked, pain, stiffness, fatigue as well as other disorders can result. A seasonal "tune-up" is very beneficial.