About
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves stimulating specific points on the body, usually by inserting thin needles into the skin. It's based on the concept of Qi (pronounced "chee"), which is believed to flow through pathways called meridians in the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, when Qi is balanced and flowing smoothly, a person experiences good health, but if the flow of Qi is disrupted, it can result in pain or illness.
Acupuncture aims to restore the balance of Qi by inserting needles into specific points along the meridians, which correspond to different organs or systems in the body. The needles used in acupuncture are very thin, so the majority of people experience little to no pain during the session. In fact, many find the treatment to be relaxing.
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to help with a wide range of conditions, including pain management, stress reduction, allergies, insomnia, digestive issues, and even infertility. While scientific research on acupuncture is ongoing, many people report positive and lasting effects from their acupuncture treatments.
What do the Acupuncture needles feel like?
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and typically much smaller than the needles used for injections or drawing blood. As a result, most people find the sensation caused by acupuncture needles to be quite different from those other experiences.
When acupuncture needles are inserted, you may feel a minimal sensation or even no sensation at all. Some people perceive a slight prick or tingling sensation upon insertion, while others may feel a dull ache, heaviness, or a sensation similar to pressure. The sensations can vary depending on the location of the needle and the individual's sensitivity.
Once the needles are in place, you may not feel anything specific, or you might experience a sense of relaxation and warmth around the needle site. Many people find acupuncture treatments to be soothing and enjoyable.
It is always important to communicate with Dr. Simons throughout the session if you experience any discomfort or sensations that concern you. She can make adjustments to ensure your comfort and address any concerns you may have
How long is a typical Acupuncture session?
A typical acupuncture session usually lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, but the initial visit may take longer, as it often includes a comprehensive consultation.
Here's a general outline of what you might expect:
- Initial Consultation: For your first visit, the practitioner will spend time discussing your medical history, health concerns, lifestyle, and goals for treatment. This assessment helps in developing a personalized treatment plan. Including this intake process, the first visit can last from 60 to 90 minutes.
- Needle Insertion: After the consultation, the actual needle insertion typically takes only a few minutes. The acupuncturist will insert several needles into specific points on the body, depending on the condition being treated.
- Needle Retention: Once the needles are in place, they are usually left in position for about 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, you rest comfortably, and many people experience a state of relaxation or even fall asleep.
- Post-Treatment: After the needles are removed, there may be a brief period for post-treatment recommendations or scheduling follow-up appointments.
- Follow-Up Sessions: Subsequent acupuncture sessions usually don't require as much time for discussion unless there's a change in your condition or treatment goals. Follow-up visits typically last around 45 to 60 minutes, including the time for needle retention.
It's essential to note that treatment frequency and total number of sessions vary from person to person. Some individuals might need only a few treatments, while others with more complex or chronic conditions may benefit from regular ongoing sessions. Dr. Simons will provide recommendations on how often you should receive treatment to best address your health concerns.
What is Laser Acupuncture?
Laser acupuncture, also known as laser therapy or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive variation of traditional acupuncture that uses low-intensity laser light instead of needles to stimulate acupuncture points on the body.
Instead of inserting needles, a handheld laser device is used to emit a specific wavelength of light onto the acupuncture points. The light penetrates the skin and is believed to stimulate the same acupoints and meridians that traditional acupuncture targets. The laser stimulates the points in a similar way to the insertion of needles but without the physical penetration.
Laser acupuncture is best used as an alternative for patients who may have a fear of needles or are sensitive to pain. It is also considered a more convenient option for treating young children.
How many Acupuncture treatments will I need?
The number of acupuncture treatments needed can vary depending on several factors, including the specific condition being treated, its severity, and your individual response to acupuncture. Generally, acute conditions may require fewer treatments, while chronic conditions might require a more extended treatment plan.
For some people, noticeable improvements may occur after just a few sessions, while others may require several weeks or even months of regular treatments. In certain cases, ongoing maintenance treatments may be recommended to sustain the positive effects.
During your initial consultation, Dr. Simons will discuss your condition and evaluate your individual needs. Together, you can create a treatment plan that suits you best, which may include the frequency and number of sessions. It's important to remember that each person is unique, and their response to acupuncture can vary.
Dr. Simons will monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed to optimize your healing process.