Contributor - Dr. Hilda Gonzalez

What is Acupuncture?

Today I would like to help take the mystery out of acupuncture and East Asian medicine which has become a fast-growing integrative health care method around the world.

Acupuncture is a modality that originated in ancient China. There are mentions of the use of long sharpened bones and stones to treat different ailments dating back several hundred years before the Common Era. Acupuncture has stood the test of time,war, governments, politics and has now been introduced and is practiced across the world.

Currently, acupuncture is practiced using single-use sterile needles that are thin, and flexible; most are no thicker than a human hair or piece of thread. These sterile single use needles are inserted by licensed acupuncturists into specific acupuncture points along different meridians. Most patients report experiencing a slight tingling sensation and first time patients are amazed at how comfortable the treatment is, and especially how relaxing it can be.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE?

Acupuncture can address a number of things, including allergies, arthritis, low back pain, vertigo, digestive disharmonies, inflammation, chemotherapy-induced and postoperative nausea and vomiting, sports injuries, menstrual cramps, whiplash, anxiety, fertility, headaches, common cold and much more.

During a treatment, the licensed acupuncturist will ask a number of questions to learn more about what is going on in order to address the root cause of your symptoms. Once the acupuncturist has gathered more information they can determine what meridians to work on and the acupuncture points to support you. Sometimes the acupuncturist will incorporate body work, guasha, fire cupping or other modalities. Treatments will vary depending on your unique presentation, but one thing most patients report is feeling more relaxed after their treatment. So if you are looking for a safe and relaxing space, where you will feel supported then acupuncture might just be what you are looking for.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN AN ACUPUNCTURE SESSION:

Thorough intake
Tongue and pulse diagnosis
Meridian palpation
Visual Inspection
Acupuncture
Relaxation
Support
Addressing the root not just the branch
A safe space
Lifestyle recommendations
Additional modalities sometimes included: Bodywork/Massage, Fire cupping, Guasha, Moxibustion, liniments, herbal prescriptions etc.

TIPS FOR YOUR FIRST ACUPUNCTURE SESSION:

Hydrate: some patients report more sensitivity when they are dehydrated, so be sure to hydrate.
Eat: eat 1-2 hours before your visit so you can feel energized but not too full.
Avoid caffeine: caffeine can stimulate your nervous system and impede the relaxing benefits of acupuncture, so avoid drinking coffee 3 hours before your treatment.
Shower: feeling fresh and clean will help you feel ready to receive a healing treatment.
Minimalism: avoid wearing makeup or a lot of jewelry. You may be asked to lay comfortably on the massage table face down, so you will feel more comfortable with a bare face and minimal jewelry.
Relax: Volunteering to receive needles sounds scary, but there’s a reason why people use acupuncture to help manage anxiety and help them relax.
Keep the day simple: After a treatment you may be asked to take it easy, so plan your appointment on a day when you will be able to go home and enjoy the post-treatment relaxation.