DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT? Acupuncture needles are extremely fine and made of stainless steel. Five to ten acupuncture needles equal the size of one hypodermic needle. Acupuncturists attain a high level of skill in gently placing these tiny needles into the skin with minimal discomfort. Once the needle is inserted the patient should feel a dull, heavy sensation, tingling or numbness of the area. Most patients feel calm and notice a high level of relaxation once the needles are all in place.

WHAT WILL I FEEL? Acupuncture may evoke a variety of sensations based on the location, depth and manipulation of the needles, and, of course, the individual’s response. Most patients would say, "relaxing." Usually patients leave in less discomfort and are more functional than when they walked in. Sometimes the effects are too subtle to perceive, especially in the beginning of treatment. Yet after 5 to 10 treatments the improvements become more and more apparent.

IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE? If performed by a qualified, conscientious practitioner, yes. Licensed Acupuncturists at the Adelaide Health Clinic know the human anatomy well, and use only clean, sterile needles in a safe manner.

ARE THERE ANY HARMFUL SIDE EFFECTS? No. When performed by a properly trained and licensed practitioner, acupuncture is safe and effective, free from adverse or addictive side effects.

WHAT ARE THE LIMITS OF ACUPUNCTURE? Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are powerful healing tools, but they are not the solution to every health care problem. Both Western and Eastern Medicine have their respective strengths and weaknesses, which is why in modern China, the two systems are used together. When appropriately combined, the patient is well served.

Generally speaking, acute, life threatening conditions are best handled by Western medical doctors. Routine health problems and chronic conditions, for which drug therapy and surgery have not been effective, often benefit from Acupuncture / Traditional Chinese Medicine.

WHAT IS HERBAL MEDICINE? Herbal preparations of various forms are also used in TCM to restore and maintain health. These herbal prescriptions are composed of single herbs that are chosen for their unique properties, tailored to the individual’s specific needs.

WHAT IS TUINA MASSAGE? “Tuina” is a form of oriental bodywork that uses manual pressure points to affect not only the muscles and joints, but also the flow of energy in the body. Because of its focus on the stimulation of specific points along the energy channels, it may be considered a form of “acupuncture without needles”.