Acupuncture is the insertion of very thin sterile solid (filiform) needles into specific points on the body to balance and move qi and blood and promote well being throughout the body. Acupuncture has been practiced in China for over 2,000 years. This ancient holistic method of treatment is safe and useful for a wide range of health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture hurt?
There isn’t a single answer for each needle insertion. Most people feel nothing or a brief, mild pricking or stinging sensation.
What should I do if I am afraid of needles?
Relax. Acupuncture needles are much thinner than injection needles. You may also wish to consider other Chinese medicine modalities or Quantum Touch until you are comfortable with trying acupuncture.
How to prepare for your first acupuncture treatment
You may be excited or curious to try acupuncture because you’ve read or heard good things about acupuncture and you’re looking forward to seeing what it can do to improve your health and vitality. These simple guidelines will help maximize your time and acupuncture experience.
How to prepare:
It is best to arrive about 15 minutes before your first appointment time because you will be filling out paperwork.
What to bring:
- A list of all supplements and medication that you are taking
- Any recent blood work or lab results and imaging reports
- Medical history including any surgeries, injuries and diagnoses
- If experiencing digestive difficulties, it may be helpful to bring a food journal
What to wear:
The most commonly used acupuncture points are located on the arms, legs, head, abdomen and ears. You may be able to remain clothed during treatment by wearing loose fitting clothes. During warmer weather a short sleeve shirt and loose fitting shorts work well. During colder weather, pants that can be pulled above the knees and tops that can be pulled above the elbows usually work well. The shirt should be loose enough to allow access to the abdominal area. When points are selected that aren’t accessible with the clothes that you are wearing, a gown and shorts will be provided.
Special considerations:
If you have any questions or need assistance, please call East Tennessee Holistic Medicine prior to treatment at (423) 617-7777 or when you arrive for your appointment.
Acupuncture Science
Are there any scientific studies showing acupuncture to be effective?
There have been many studies done on acupuncture. Here are a few showing benefits.
Acupuncture as Adjunctive Therapy for Chronic Stable Angina: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Acupuncture Reverts Heart Arrhythmias To Normal
Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for dizziness and vertigo in emergency department: a pilot cohort study
Electroacupuncture releases stem cells to relieve pain, promote tissue repair, study finds
Quieting the Storm: Acupuncture activates inflammation-regulating pathways, tames cytokine storm in mice
Two Kinds of Acupuncture Can Relieve Pain in Cancer Survivors
The Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Resource News and Resource Center provides many articles on a variety of health conditions.