Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Does Acupuncture Hurt?

A.  Most of the time, you don’t feel anything. Occasionally you might feel the needle go in, a sting like a mosquito bite but once they are inserted, you will not feel any pain. In fact, most people find the experience to be extremely relaxing and will often go to sleep. It is not a stressful experience in general (even for those who are scared of needles).

Q. Is it safe?

Acupuncture needles are hair thin, solid, sterile, used once only and discarded. In my practice, I use only pre-sterilised, pre-packaged, disposable needles that go into a sharps bio-hazard container after use. Acupuncture needles are much thinner than standard hypodermic needles used by GP’s. In fact they aren’t much thicker than a couple of human hairs!

Q. If you are Afraid of Needles Should you still Try it?

A. Absolutely. More often than not, the ‘Scared Patient’ is the first to fall asleep once the needles are inserted and then be surprised by how relaxing the whole thing was.

Q. What should I expect from receiving my first acupuncture treatment?

A. Your first acupuncture visit consists of an initial one-hour interview and treatment, upon which a thorough medical history is taken. Ample time is allowed for you to explain your health concerns and goals. Your health condition is discussed and a recommendation is made regarding the length and frequency of your treatment. The length of time needles stay in the body during a treatment varies depending on the condition of the patient. Herbal consultations (if required) are included in the initial interview.

Q. Will I have to Undress?

A. For most treatments, needles are only inserted in the forearms and lower legs. Therefore just wear comfortable, loose clothing. Sometimes treatments will require you to partially undress however you are always given complete privacy to disrobe. Towels are provided for your comfort.

Q. How many treatments will I need?

Some people notice an immediate change after their first treatment, but this is not necessarily typical. Often, especially with chronic or severe problems, it takes several acupuncture sessions to see results. Acupuncture is kind of like eating right or exercising: you don’t do it once and expect a lasting change. The good news about acupuncture is that most people don’t have to continue with it forever. My goal is to work myself out of a job as quickly as possible and send you on your way healthier and happier than when we first met. 

Q. Are Acupuncture and Dry Needling the same thing?

Dry needling and acupuncture both involve puncturing the skin with thin needles for therapeutic purposes. While a shared aim is to provide relief from pain, the practices are otherwise very different. Practitioners of dry needling attempt to release tension from knots and pressure points in muscles. Acupuncturists insert needles to release endorphins and affect the nervous system.

While researchers have studied acupuncture as a complementary treatment for many conditions, dry needling is a newer practice, and the evidence is less comprehensive. Also, strict guidelines are in place for acupuncturists, but dry needling is not regulated.

You may find that practitioners doing dry needling may have only done a weekend course . Acupuncture on the other hand is strictly regulated by AHPRA and all practitioners are legally required to have a minimum four year degree in Acupuncture/Health Sciences.