A Few Questions Answered About Acupuncture

 

How Does Acupuncture Work?

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Here's one way to think about it.

Think about the body as a composite of multiple interconnected systems. We have the skeletal structure, on which we have a network of fascia, a network of muscle, our circulatory system, our lymphatic system and our nervous system (to name some of the major players). These systems connect the length of our body, from head to toe.

To start to understand acupuncture, just add one more system - our energetic system.

In acupuncture, this is known as the meridian network. Meridians are pathways through which our energy flows in the body.

In function, the meridian system closely resembles both the circulatory and nervous systems. How is this?

The meridian network resembles the circulatory system in that it carries nourishment throughout the body. Every part of your body needs enough energy to function properly, just like it needs enough blood flow. The meridian network carries energy all around the body to keep it strong and functional. Just like the blood vessels, if the meridians are obstructed or damaged then illness will result (as the nutrition cannot flow properly past the damage).

One of my primary functions as an acupuncturist is to make sure your meridians are clear, healthy and full of energy.

The meridian network resembles the nervous system as well, in that it can carry instructions to the body.

This is the other primary way I work to heal you with acupuncture.

If your body is not producing enough heat, I can use the meridians to tell the body to make more. If you cannot conceive a child, I can use the meridians to tell the body to improve the circulation in the uterus, thus improving fertility.(1) If you are nauseous, I can use the meridians to correct the disordered circulation in the stomach.(2)

There are of course limits to the instructions the body will accept (unfortunately acupuncture cannot tell the body to stop making cancer cells!) However, the above examples are just some of the ways where I often see good results with acupuncture.

Usually the body does a pretty good job of regulating itself. Sometimes, though, it needs to be tuned up, to be reminded how to run efficiently and safely. This is where I can help you.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture is one of the safest therapies around. A review of worldwide research on acupuncture safety conducted for over 40 years demonstrated that, when performed by a trained professional, acupuncture is “extremely safe”. (3)

I am fully trained and qualified with a Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture) from Endeavour College in Brisbane, plus a 1000 hour apprenticeship completed at the Queensland Sports Medicine Centre. You are completely safe on my treatment table.

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Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Not in this clinic! The Japanese style of acupuncture that I practice places enormous emphasis on patient comfort. I use needles that are much thinner than those used by most other acupuncturists, and my technique is specifically designed to eliminate pain.

You may have had a painful experience with another acupuncturist (maybe they also told you it doesn't hurt!). I personally have treated terrified needlephobic patients and had them fall asleep on my table. It is extremely common for people to not even be aware that I have inserted a needle. You will find my treatments pleasant and relaxing, as well as highly effective.

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What Exactly Happens On The Table?

When you are on the table I will ask you some questions about your complaint. I will also take your pulse and look at your tongue, which are important diagnostic tools in acupuncture. I may palpate your abdomen for more diagnostic information. Then, I will very gently insert a needle in some points on your arms and legs. After these are removed, I'll insert and retain some needles on your back to finish the treatment, and many patients fall asleep at this point. Sometimes, with musculoskeletal problems, I might apply heat to the end of some of the needles, or apply heat directly to the skin. This is a pleasant, gentle warmth and is very safe.

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Who Can Have Acupuncture?

Anyone. I can treat patients as young as 2 weeks, and the elderly will also benefit from acupuncture. Recently injured? Let's get that inflammation and swelling down. Pregnant? I can help with morning sickness and other complications. Got a cold? Let me take the edge right off.

In short, anyone can benefit from acupuncture.

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How Long Until I Feel Better?

In most cases you will begin to feel relief after one treatment. The more acute a problem is (such as a cold) the fewer the number of treatments that are required. The earlier you come to see me for a problem the easier it is to resolve. If you have a serious chronic condition or injury it could take several months of regular treatment to resolve. How long is highly specific to you and your problem.

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Can I Have Acupuncture After Surgery?

Absolutely. In fact, acupuncture is brilliant for accelerating postoperative recovery.

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What If Acupuncture Doesn't Work?

As with any approach to a medical condition, acupuncture is just one of the options available to you. If progress is slower than considered normal for your condition, I will refer you to other specialists who may be able to help you further.
 

1. Manheimer, Eric et. al. 2008. Effects of acupuncture on rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing in vitro fertilisation: systematic review and meta-analysis. Published in the British Medical Journal. http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/bmj.39471.430451.BEv1?q=rss_homehttp://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/bmj.39471.430451.BEv1?q=rss_home .

 

2. Lee, A et al. 2008. Stimulation of the wrist acupuncture point P6 for preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting. Published in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2010 Issue 5. http://www2.cochrane.org/reviews/en/ab003281.html"

 

3. National Acupuncture Foundation, 2001. Acupuncture Safety Record. http://www.nationalacupuncturefoundation.org/pages/publications/safety_chart.html