Acupuncture Frequently Asked Questions:
Most people have some questions regarding acupuncture if they have never used it as a health treatment or fertility enhancement before. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from our new comers. Please contact us today with any questions you may have!
How does acupuncture work?
In its most basic explanation the acupuncture points regulate different aspects of one’s body and health. If more energy is needed in digestion there is a point that strengthens digestive energy, while if a person is running too hot there is a point that encourages the body to vent the excess heat. Not only does acupuncture work on a physiological level but emotional issues can also be addressed.
Can you treat more than one issue in a session?
Yes, more than one issue can be addressed in a session and often in Chinese medicine symptoms are related. Chinese medicine seeks to find the root cause of one’s health problems and once the root imbalance is corrected other issues follow suite. For example a bad diet can harm the digestive energy, in Chinese medicine this can result in excess mucus, constipation, foggy thinking, fatigue and slow metabolism among other symptoms, so when strengthening the digestive energy other symptoms will improve.
How many treatments until I see a result?
Each person responds to acupuncture differently. I can usually get a better idea of how quickly your body responds to acupuncture after your first visit. From there we can form a treatment plan. Acute disorders tend to respond faster than chronic disorders. Often I tell people three to five visits depending on the issue, which allows their body time to process the healthier pattern. Although, in some cases such as fertility (which is more complex) it depends on medical history and hormonal function or dysfunction as to the time needed to rebalance the body.
How many sessions are suggested for fertility / IVF / IUI treatments?
Everyone comes to acupuncture in a different level of health. Some are using fertility treatments with IVF or IUI, some need help building up their uterine lining, some seek treatment for improving retrieval numbers and some are interested in getting their body to ovulate in a predictable cycle. In consideration of all the different issues the treatment varies with each individual. In cases of fertility where there is no other concurrent issues and ovulation and cycles are clockwork I usually recommend 2-3 months of treatment every week except the week of your period. In regards to those doing medicated cycles, IVF or IUI depending on what part of the program you are in and other concerns your fertility doctor has, will determine your treatment schedule.
Why should I follow your food/dietary suggestions?
There is a quote from Hippocrates that states,”Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” This quote rings true in Eastern food therapy as well. Food is the first form of medicine. What we eat can heal our body, likewise when we eat badly we can harm our body. Eastern food therapy does not work on the premise of calorie restrictive diets or specific vitamins, rather it bases its theories on the nature of the food, preparation methods and lifestyle suggestions for efficient digestion. For example of a food’s "nature" watermelon has a cool nature, it is cold even hours after removed from the refrigerator, nature presents this fruit at the height of the summer heat, and it is refreshing to the palate. Watermelon in Chinese medicine can be used to treat hot flashes because it is cooling. Many foods have been categorized in such a way and depending on where your imbalances lie food may be the most simple solution to some of your health issues. Also eating the correct foods can perpetuate good health and prevent diseases.