We're very excited to now offer acupuncture at Parkside, and thought we'd use this blog post to answer some common questions about this ancient practice. So what is acupuncture, and how does it work?
Acupuncture: Just Say Aaaahhh
Acupuncture has a rich history dating back at least to the Stone Age. It is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which views the body as a network of energy channels called meridians. Disruptions in this energy flow, or qi (pronounced "chee"), are believed to be the root cause of pain and illness. By inserting sterile, hair-thin needles at specific points along these meridians, acupuncturists aim to restore balance and promote healing.
Acupuncturists may also examine your tongue, eyes, pulse, and other areas for clues to your overall health. They will ask you about your lifestyle and other habits. Many acupuncturists use TCM tools like moxibustion, herbs, oils, cupping, and massage during their sessions, all in the pursuit of reestablishing balance and removing obstacles to health. Acupuncture is a well-researched therapy, and has become increasingly common all over the world as more and more people find it provides relief from a host of symptoms and illnesses with very few side effects. Most people find acupuncture relaxing and enjoyable.
What can it be used for?
Chronic pain—including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and arthritis pain—is one of the most frequent reasons people seek acupuncture. The Mayo Clinic also notes these common uses:
Chemotherapy-induced and postoperative nausea and vomiting
Dental pain, labor pain, menstrual cramps
Fibromyalgia
Headaches, including tension headaches and migraines
Improve blood circulation, regulate the immune system, stimulate the nervous system
Osteoarthritis, tennis elbow
Respiratory disorders, such as allergic rhinitis
What should I expect during a session?
Nerves are normal
If you’ve never had acupuncture before it’s normal to feel a little nervous. If you haven't had the chance to see the type of needles used in acupuncture sessions, you would no doubt be surprised by just how slender they are. They are only slightly thicker than a human hair, and much thinner than a sewing needle. They are completely sterile, and discarded after your session. Most importantly, every therapeutic session is controlled by the patient, so if anything makes you uncomfortable, all you have to do is say so and an alternative treatment can be found.
the treatment
Once your acupuncturist has had a chance to verbally check-in with you, they will determine the best treatment for that day. They will instruct you how to get ready for the session. and if you’re comfortable with needles, they will insert them into very specific spots on your body. This usually causes little to no discomfort. The length of the session may vary, as may the number of treatments in your treatment plan (some issues resolve quickly, others take a little more time). A typical treatment uses 5 to 20 needles, and while you may not feel them inserted at all, you may feel a mild ache once the needle reaches the correct depth. In most cases, the needles remain in place for 10 to 15 minutes while you lie still and relax. There is usually no discomfort when the needles are removed.
Some people feel relaxed and others feel energized after an acupuncture treatment. Post-treatments instructions are usually similar to a massage or chiropractic session: take it a little bit easy for the rest of the day, hydrate, and enjoy the feelings of connection to your body.
How can acupuncture help with my chiropractic and massage sessions?
Acupuncture is extremely complimentary to all forms of medicine and therapy, and is a powerful modality all on its own. There are so many benefits to acupuncture, and so few side effects, we believe it is a powerful investment in your health and overall well-being.
Meet Lynn Harvey
Meet Parkside's new acupuncturist, Lynn Harvey! Make an appointment with Lynn and see if acupuncture is a good fit for you.
Come visit us at Parkside
Come see our expert team at Parkside Clinic where we tailor our care to your specific condition and tap into your body’s natural healing ability. Make an appointment, or if you have any questions, contact us.