Most people have many questions about acupuncture even though it is one of the oldest and most continuously practiced type of medicine in the world.  The following are some commonly asked questions.


What happens during the first visit?
~ During your first visit, which will last approximately 1.5 hours, you and your practitioner will discuss in detail your main health concerns as well as your health history. (Please remember to bring your completed health history questionnaire.)  This detailed discussion will allow your practitioner to make a complete evaluation of your health condition.  At this time, you and your practitioner will come up with a treatment plan that best suits your health goals.

Does acupuncture hurt?
~ The answer is absolutely not!  Acupuncture needles do not resemble or feel like the type of needles used to draw blood or to give an injection.  In fact, they are nearly as thin as a strand of hair and are solid, unlike hypodermic needles which are hollow.  The unique structure of acupuncture needles allows for it to slip gently and painlessly between the cells of your skin, without you even knowing it.  If you do feel any sensations, it might feel like a mosquito bite, but then it subsides immediately.  At Turning Leaf, our practitioners are also trained in styles of acupuncture that to do not require the insertion of any needles at all!  Your practitioner will decide which style of acupuncture treatment will be best suited for your health concerns.

What happens once the needles are in?
~ People often experience various sensations once the needles are in place.  These vary from tingling, aching, heavy and radiating sensations, all positive, indicating that the Qi is moving within the channels.  Most patients fall into a deep sense of calm and relaxation during a treatment and often get their best naps during this time!

What will I feel after a treatment?
~ It is very common to feel relaxed and possibly a bit groggy after a treatment, so we suggest avoiding strenuous activity and recommend drinking plenty of water.  Some patients report feeling residual sensations where the needles were placed, and this is a good sign, as it means that the acupuncture point is still being stimulated.  It is also possible to have a slight "flare-up" of a condition after a treatment, but this will quickly diminish as the body readjusts itself.

How many treatments will it take to get better?
~  This depends on a number of factors, some of which include the patient's overall health, the severity of the condition and whether or not it is chronic or acute.  It is difficult to give a specific number of treatments required, but in general, many patients may experience positive results after a series of 6-12 weekly treatments.  Some patients may see results within the first few treatments, while others may require a longer series of treatment.  Success of a treatment is based on the condition being treated, the experience of the practitioner, as well as the patient's commitment to improve their own health.  

Does acupuncture always work?
~ Just like any form of medicine, there isn't one treatment that works for everyone.  After a few treatments you and your practitioner will reevaluate your condition and determine if continued acupuncture is the best treatment for you.  It is our goal to have your health improve, whether it is through acupuncture with us or through another form of medicine with someone else.

Once I'm better, should I stop coming for acupuncture?
~ It is recommended that once the health condition is resolved, that you continue to come for acupuncture, but not as often.  This is considered maintenance, to keep your body strong and healthy, preventing any relapses.  Just like going to the gym and taking vitamins, acupuncture can help keep your body in balance, even when you do feel great.

If I don't understand acupuncture, will it still work?
~ Absolutely!  Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating animals, which don't understand the concepts of acupuncture but show clear improvements in their health after treatment.

Is acupuncture safe for children?
~ Yes!  Pediatric acupuncture is very safe and commonly used to treat infants and children.  We use gentle, non-insertive acupuncture and prescribe mild herbal formulas when necessary.  Parents are asked to remain in the treatment room for the entirety of the child's treatment session.