FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What can acupuncture do for me?
No two people experience illness or the healing process the same way because each person is unique. Acupuncture diminishes or stops pain and strengthens the body's immune system. It also regulates and restores the harmonious, energetic balance of the body. Acupuncture treats both causes and symptoms to help prevent future diseases.

Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncturists gently insert needles that are fine and almost hair-like. Westerners who are not familiar with acupuncture may perceive some minor discomfort. Patients tend to describe the feeling as heaviness, pressure, or a tingling feeling, occurring either around the needle or traveling up and down the affected meridian. When the natural, holistic, curative effects of acupuncture are appreciated, they far outweigh any initial discomfort that may be experienced. Paula also utilizes cupping and gua sha, techniques that have been used safely for thousands of years.

What can acupuncture treat?
Almost anyone with an illness that has even the smallest chance of recovery or improvement can be more quickly healed with the help of acupuncture. This includes mild to acute conditions such as colds, flu, and bronchitis, sprains and fractures, as well as post-surgical. Chronic disorders such as allergies, asthma, fatigue, arthritis, gynecological, digestive, and many other problems can also be treated. You will find these may improve or heal completely with a series of acupuncture treatments.

How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends on the nature, duration, and severity of your complaint. Significant changes can be experienced in three to four treatments and weekly visits for the first month are recommended. Some severe conditions may require many treatments over a period of time.

What about sterilization and disease transmission?
Only one-time-use, disposable, pre-sterilized needles are used, thus eliminating any risk of communicable disease transmission from contaminated needles. The National Commission for Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) requires acupuncturists to pass a Clean Needle Exam using the CDC (Center for Disease Control) standards of sterile procedure.