Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is acupuncture painful?     A. Most people find acupuncture relaxing. Acupuncture needles are very fine, about the size of a human hair. When a needle is inserted, the patient may feel a slight pressure, tingling, heaviness, or mild electric sensation. Often a needle can't be felt at all. While some points may be more sensitive than others, every effort is made to insert the needle without discomfort.     Q. Are acupuncture needles safe?     A. Only sterilized, single-use, disposable needles are used. Most often, needles are only inserted to a depth of 1/4" to 1" depending on the nature of the treatment.

 

Q. Are Chinese herbs safe?     A. All of the herbs in our pharmacy are grown and manufactured under the strictest of regulations, receiving the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) seal of approval. Chinese herbs typically have far fewer side effects than Western drugs, including over-the-counter medicines, such as Tylenol. You should always inform both your Western M.D. and TCM practitioner of any prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbs, or supplements you are taking so possible interactions between herbs and Western drugs may be avoided. Such interactions are very rare and occur mainly when herbs are abused. The recent use of ephedra in weight-loss supplements is one such example.     Q. How many acupuncture treatments will I need?     A. The number of treatments varies according to the nature of both the patient and the complaint. Some conditions need only a few treatments while other chronic problems may require a longer series.     Q. Should I try acupuncture only when I'm ill?     A. No. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine is highly effective as preventative medicine. TCM is also an effective modality for reducing stress, enhancing immunity, and promoting general health.