What is Acupuncture & How Does It Help?
Pain can bring discomfort that no one wants to experience. There are an endless number of remedies to explore, all with their own benefits and treatments, including acupuncture. But what is acupuncture? Our patients ask this a lot! We at AcuMantras sat down to answer a few of your most frequent questions. Such as what the benefits of acupuncture are, how it works, and more.
Can you tell me more about the benefits of acupuncture?
Absolutely! Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into your skin at various points. These help relieve symptoms commonly associated with a handful of health conditions. Acupuncture is believed to relieve headaches, neck and lower back pain, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Furthermore, some have tied it to reducing menstrual cycle pain, inducing labor, reducing the risk of stroke and more.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture involves inserting very thin needles into the body at varying depths and points on the body. The correct placement supposedly helps rebalance the flow of energy through the body. The needles remain in place for anywhere from five, up to 30 minutes. During this time, they are repositioned and subject to electric pulses of stimulation. Depending on your plan of treatment, up to 30 needles can be used in a single area of focus. We mentioned acupuncture focuses on the flow of energy. As a result of careful needle placement, the area of the body experiencing pain might not necessarily be the area treated. Your acupuncturist can discuss more during your initial consultation.
Can you tell me more about the modern approach?
The western approach claims a neurological advantage. This is due to the belief that acupuncture plays a role in the rebalance of energy. In this approach, careful needle placement reportedly impacts various nerves and tissues throughout the body. This essentially signals the brain, stimulates natural pain relievers and induces blood flow. Researchers are studying the possible connection acupuncture has to curing conditions such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, alcoholism and depression.
What can you tell me about traditional Chinese remedies?
Sure! Let’s start at the beginning with its history, beginning in Asia more than 2,500 years ago. The Earl E. Bakken Center Spirituality and Healing cites acupuncture as just one of a handful of traditional Chinese medicines. One can achieve harmony which brings health, wellbeing and sustainability. It's said that acupuncture, a long-used Chinese medicine, is a remedy for the imbalance of Qi, an energy force. The needles release and rebalanceVa the Qi. Think of it as removing the bad energy to feel better physically and mentally. But while the execution is the same between modern and traditional acupuncture, the foundational backgrounds do differ.
How do I choose a clinic that works for me?
As with any service using needles, cleanliness and safety is of high importance. Find a studio that prioritizes this and follows all rules set by the FDA. Our AcuMantras studio invests in single-use needles to reduce the risk of exposure and cross contamination. Choosing between a public and private clinic will also play a role in decision making.
AcuMantras is a non-profit organization. Our mission is to help a diverse community by expanding access to the healing benefits of Eastern medicine. Since we are a non-profit, we can offer affordable services, regardless of socioeconomic status. In addition, we don't only offer traditional acupuncture, and community acupuncture. We also offer classes in herbal medicine, stretching and nutrition. But every acupuncture clinic is different, so as with all medical decisions, it is important to weigh the pros and cons. Carefully weigh the options to find the best fit for your needs.
I am afraid of needles. Does Acupuncture hurt?
While acupuncture needles are very thin, as with all medical procedures, it is important to listen to your body. Most say acupuncture doesn't hurt, yet bruising can be associated with acupuncture. Moreover, those with blood clotting or heart conditions and those who are pregnant should consult a physician before beginning. If you have a pacemaker, we recommend consulting your physician. This is due to electric pulses being used for multiple treatments. Talk to your acupuncture professional about any concerns.
How long does it take for acupuncture to work?
This is the magic question. Some instantly feel a bit of relief after a session. Therefore, we recommend you wait up to 15 minutes before driving home. We typically see patients for up to two treatments per week for around 10 weeks. If you do not feel the results after one month, talk to your doctor and acupuncturist.
You mentioned community acupuncture. Can you tell me how I can find out more about this?
Yes! Our studio offers community acupuncture three times per week. We offer this service on Tuesday afternoons, Wednesday evenings and Friday mid-day. These group-style sessions are still completely individualized. But they are given in a more affordable, shorter session. Due to social distancing, space is limited. Because of this, please be sure to call the studio prior to arrival. You can call us at 954-408-8224 to learn more about reserving a spot.
What is the difference between dry needling vs. acupuncture?
That’s a great question. We are asked this just as often as we are asked, “what is acupuncture?”. They are very similar. Both involve inserting steel needles into the skin. Both are used for pain management.
However, dry needling is fairly new compared to acupuncture. Rather than focus on energy flow, its aim is to stimulate muscles. A filiform needle is used, so it doesn't release any liquid. This is where the name dry needling comes from. As a result of focusing on muscle improvement, athletes often use dry needling. Some claim it helps with flexibility, pain and range of motion.
What else should I know?
It is perfectly normal to be nervous for your first session. For your comfort, feel free to bring a comfort item such as a cozy sweater or blanket, especially for community acupuncture. We also recommend eating prior to your arrival. For best results and to achieve a completely relaxed state, we ask that phones be left on silent.
If you have more questions, we will be sure to answer them. Our team of acupuncturists are on hand to assist in the decision making process towards your pain management. Be sure to connect with us on Instagram, like us on Facebook or give us a call at (954) 408-8224. Our office is conveniently located in Plantation, Florida, with different classes throughout the week to fit your needs. Call us today to learn more.
Looking for additional resources? Check out some of our favorites including:
Mayo Clinic’s Guide to Pain Relief, a three-part guide to understanding pain management.
The Cleveland Clinic’s Neurological Institute’s Treatment Guides, diving into a variety of conditions.
AcuMamtras Programming, learn more about our classes and offerings.