Are the needles sterile and safe?

Ascential clinic only uses needles that are manufactured, packaged, and shipped in a sterile environment. Each needle is used only once, then safely discarded.

What are the possible side effects?

There are very few side effects with acupuncture.  The most common are local bruising
at the insertion site.  This is temporary and does not deter from the effective of the treatment. While rare, more serious side effects include fainting, needle break, bent needle, or puncture of internal organs. Majority of the side effects from acupuncture are actually positive.  Better sleep, increased energy, pain relief, etc.

Will it hurt?

Most people say that acupuncture doesn’t hurt.  People experience acupuncture needling differently. Some patients may feel some discomfort or a tiny pinch as the needles are inserted; some patients don’t feel the insertion at all.  The sensation subsides quickly once the needles are inserted to their correct depth.  Once the needles are in place, there may be a pressure or tingling sensation which indicates that the treatment is working well, but this sensation is not painful.  Most people agree that acupuncture treatments are comfortable and relaxing.  In fact, many people fall asleep during acupuncture treatment! 

How many treatments do I need and how often?

Because each person’s health issues are different, and response to treatment is unique, the number and frequency of treatments will vary. As a general guideline, conditions that are acute will respond faster than chronic conditions. The recommendation for acupuncture is twice a week for three weeks to assess favorable results. Some patients may respond favorably after one visit, where as others may require several months of treatments for maximum results. Most people notice changes after their third treatment. For a limited amount of people, despite best efforts, the patient does not respond to acupuncture.

What are the other treatment modalities used?

The techniques of cupping and electric stimulation may also be included with your
treatment. Cupping uses warmed jars that create a light suction when applied to the body. Its purpose is to reduce local congestion of Qi and blood. Electric stimulation is often used in pain conditions. Small clips are attached to the needles to deliver electric stimulation between 1 or more pairs of needles.  The effect is similar to that of a regular TENS unit.  It helps to increase the blood flow reducing pain.

I don't have any health problems, can I still benefit from acupuncture?

Absolutely, acupuncture is an excellent way to maintain optimum health. The stress of modern life often goes undetected until manifested in physical illness. Regular maintenance or "tune up" acupuncture treatments work as a preventative measure to keeping your body in balance. 

What if I'm afraid of needles?

You're not alone. Many people are uncomfortable with needles and some even have an authentic phobia. Most people fear acupuncture because they associate needles with painful injections. Acupuncture needles are usually painless and people are often surprised on their first visit that a needle has even been inserted.  If you have a fear of needles but are interested in acupuncture I will do my best to help you conquer your fear. We can start out slow by just showing you the needles, and I'll even demonstrate it on myself first. You don't have to have any acupuncture until you are ready, we can start off with other methods such as cupping.  We can do treatments with fewer needles to slowly ease you into it.

View this video that shows what happens during an acupuncture treatment at about.com
See an Acupuncture Treatment