How Does Acupuncture Work?
There are two ways to answer this question: The eastern “Oriental medicine” answer, and the western “allopathic medicine” answer.
Traditional Oriental Medicine explains that there is a life-force of energy, called Qi (pronounced chee and sometimes spelled ch’i). This Qi flows through your body bringing life and vitality. When the Qi is out of balance, it creates all sorts of physical and even mental and emotional problems. By inserting needles in pathways of Qi, called meridians, the balance can be restored and ailments healed.
Western medicine (also known as allopathic medicine) has a very different way of understanding how acupuncture gets its results. There are specific points through out the body that can be stimulated by hair thin acupuncture needles which may regulate biochemical and physiological conditions. When the acupuncture needles are inserted they create a chain reaction, starting with the sensory receptors which trigger the hypothalamic-pituary system to release endorphins and other biochemicals effecting a calm feeling along with pain reduction. Endorphins can effect positive hormonal change, and Serotonin levels can be increased which helps with conditions such as depression and anxiety.
What is Qi?
Qi is the energetic life force circulating within our bodies. When this Qi is balanced it results in a healthy body, and if Qi is imbalanced it may result in disease. The purpose of acupuncture and oriental medicine in general is to restore this balance. Read more about what Qi is.
Does It Matter If I Believe in Acupuncture or Not?
The success of a treatment depends on a number of variables. Believing in it can be helpful in regard to your attitude. A positive attitude can be helpful in the success of anything. Acupuncture is the same way. Cooperating with treatment improves the outcome, but you do not have to believe in acupuncture for it to have effect.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most of the time there is little to no pain. If pain is felt, needles are immediately removed. The majority of my patients find an acupuncture treatment very relaxing.
What If I’m Afraid of Needles?
Acupuncture needles are hair thin, not like a medical hypodermic needle. Most of the time there is little to no pain. The majority of my patients find an acupuncture treatment very relaxing.
How Long Will I Have to Lay There?
The acupuncture sessions can be 30 minutes to two hours depending on your condition. Your first visit will be a longer session than your follow-up visits.
Will Acupuncture or TCM Really Help?
Scientific as well as traditional Chinese medicine-based research shows it does help for specified conditions. Patient testimonials also support that acupuncture and other TCM modalities do work, some faster and more completely than others. Results are different for each patient.
How Often Will I Need Acupuncture Treatment?
Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual patient’s condition and needs. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about the treatment you will require to achieve the health and wellness you seek.
I’m Seeing a Medical Doctor, Can I Still Get Acupuncture?
Yes, you can do both in most cases. But it is best for your health and safety to inform all practitioners caring for your health of any treatments you are receiving from other sources. In some cases, a release may be requested from your doctor.
Can I See My Chiropractor, Massage Therapist, or Naturopath While Seeing an Acupuncturist?
In most cases, the answer is yes. However, it is always advisable to inform all of your healthcare providers of other treatments you are receiving. Your well-being should be everyone’s primary concern. We take pride in a safe and natural approach to your health and wellness.
What are TCM Services Other Than Acupuncture Are Offered?
In order to offer a complete alternative medicine and holistic health approach to wellness, other TCM services offered in our clinic include:
- Chinese cupping
- gua sha
- medicinal herbs
- medical Qi Gong
- moxibustion
- electro- stimulation
- acupressure
- dietary & lifestyle recommendations.
In addition to traditional acupuncture, we also offer specialized progressive acupuncture treatments including:
- auricular acupuncture (of the ear)
- scalp acupuncture
- aroma acupuncture with medical grade essential oils.
Can I Get Acupuncture If I’m Pregnant?
Yes you can! In fact, studies have shown acupuncture to be effective in relieving pregnancy symptoms such as: morning sickness, headaches, depression, heartburn, lower back pain, sciatic, edema in the legs and much more. The American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology published a scientific research paper reporting pre-natal acupuncture to be an efficacious remedy in soothing common aches and discomforts.
- Lower back and pelvic pain – The research Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology has reported that prenatal patients receiving acupuncture treatment in their late second or third trimesters clinically reveal sizable reduction in pain of the lower back and pelvic region.
- Depression – It is common for depression to occur in pregnancy, one out of four women experience it. A study published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology has reported patients responded significantly well to treatment for depression.
- Post-natal depression– It is common for women to experience depression after pregnancy and patients respond significantly well to TCM treatment.
Can a Child Get Acupuncture?
Absolutely! Parents seek acupuncture for their child because it offers an effective, safe, and less invasive approach. Pediatric acupuncture is effective because it stimulates healing and rejuvenates the body’s own capacity to recover quickly with no unwanted side effects.
What is Flying Needle’s Area of Specialty?
Our clinic offers a general practice treating pain, stress, anxiety, pre-, peri-, and post-menopause and andropause, plus complementary cardiovascular and autoimmune treatment. Mary Sudduth’s 30+ years in Western medicine enables effective communication with patients’ medical doctors.
How Much Does Acupuncture Cost?
We offer competitive acupuncture fees for the Houston area. Plus, we offer discounts for senior citizens, military, and community service professions. We also offer acupuncture session packages to make treatment more affordable. See our acupuncture fees.
Is Insurance Accepted?
A patient’s insurance may cover acupuncture. If you verify coverage with your insurance provider, we will supply you with documentation of the codes to submit to your insurance.
I’m Getting Chemo, Can I Get Acupuncture?
Acupuncture can help with nausea, pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, hot flashes, and sleep disturbance that chemotherapy and radiation can cause. We always recommend you inform all your healthcare providers of treatments you are receiving. In some cases, a doctor’s release may be required.
Do You Do Acupuncture on Pets?
We do not offer pet acupuncture but it is sometimes offered by veterinarians and specialty animal acupuncturists and herbalist. Call us if you need assistance finding acupuncture help for your pet in Houston.
