F.A.Q.
Answering your Questions
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
If you are new to Acupuncture or Cupping, we understand that you might have some questions. We are confident that we have the answers to your inquiries.
Below are the answers to the questions that are most commonly asked about acupuncture and/or cupping treatment. Should you have additional questions please feel free to contact us.
What are the benefits of acupuncture?
There are many benefits to acupuncture! Some of these may include the following:
- Pain relief
- Relaxation or sedation
- Immune enhancement
- Anti-inflammatory response
- Anti-allergic response
- Psychological response
- Decrease in muscle recovery time
- Homeostasis or regulatory effect
What does a treatment feel like? Does it hurt?
When the needle is inserted into the skin, you may feel a slight sensation of pain similar to a mosquito bite. There may also be a feeling of numbness, heaviness, warmth, or slight pain in the affected area. With the use of cups, you may feel some pinching feeling, or a general tightness or pressure.
Are there any complications of acupuncture/cupping?
Complications may include, but are not limited to:
- Pain, although discomfort is usually minimal
- Bleeding - bleeding may occur occasionally upon the removal of the needle, and is generally limited to 1 or 2 drops
- Fainting - fainting or lightheadedness may occur before, during, or after the treatment; be sure to report these symptoms to your therapist immediately
- Infection - the risk of infection is very rare, as only sterile, disposable needles of high quality surgical steel are used in regards to acupuncture.
- Pregnancy - treatment is not recommended in the first and third trimester
- Bruising - if this happens, apply ice to the affected area. "Bruising" may happen with cupping, however these markings are not bruising in the trauma sense. These markings are indicative of other physiological changes that can be related to treatment or assessment of the tissues being worked on. Ask your therapist for more information regarding cup markings!
When can I expect results? How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments will vary with each individual and the condition being treated. Treatments usually last between 15-30 minutes. Relief may be immediate or within a few hours or a few days of treatment. Most patients notice an improvement after the first couple of treatments. If no improvement is experienced within 4-8 treatments, the overall changes expected may be minimal.
What conditions can acupuncture be used to treat?
Acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal problems such as muscle strains, sprains, bruising, neuralgias, chronic pain and others. It may also be used to treat systemic difficulties. Ask your therapist if you have questions regarding your specific condition.
What conditions can cupping be used to treat?
Cupping can be used to treat a variety of conditions, such as acupuncture! In addition to strains, subacute sprains, bruising and chronic pain, cupping works with with lymphatic drainage (i.e. conditions where edema is a concern), fascial restrictions that may be related to a scar, fibromyalgia, chronic pain or other musculoskeletal conditions. Cupping can also be used for improved blood flow to improve overall healing and/or promote a general feeling of well-being and balance. Ask your therapist if you have any additional questions in regards to cupping potentially being a positive addition to your treatment session(s)!
