Q: What is acupuncture?

A: Traditional acupuncture believes that physical conditions manifest because there is an imbalance in the body and with the insertion of needles in an acupuncture point this imbalance can be restored. Modern acupuncture uses the traditional acupuncture points to stimulate specific anatomical structures (muscles, nerves, connective tissue, and intra-articular) in order to normalize these structures.

Q: How should I prepare for acupuncture?

A: Ideally you should eat something before your appointment time. It is recommended that you do not smoke or intake any caffeine 2 hours before or after acupuncture as it can interfere with the treatment.

Q: What does acupuncture feel like?

A: You may feel a pricking sensation when the needle is first inserted. Once the needle is inserted you may experience sensations that have been described as achy, sore, warm or a “full” feeling.

Q: What are the benefits?

A: Some of the benefits of acupuncture include normalizing autonomic nervous system dysfunction, control and decrease pain, and has anti-inflammation benefits.

Q: Are there any side effects?

A: You may experience some soreness and/or bruising in the area of needle insertion. After treatment it is also possible that you may feel light headed.

Q: My appointment is 60 minutes and that includes massage therapy and acupuncture, what part of my treatment is massage and what part of my treatment is acupuncture?

A: Expect that the treatment will be split roughly 50% MT and 50% acupuncture. This will be communicated with you by your RMT and will be part of the consent to treat.