So many people are curious about the benefits of acupuncture but many put off from seeking relief from their symptoms because of, well, the acupuncture! Our society has a reflexive reaction to needles that probably comes from the time you were first stuck with a hypodermic needle to get a vaccine. A valid fear that was ingrained in us when we were young and getting a vaccine was a much more traumatic experience. But acupuncture needles are nothing like hypodermic needles, being fifty to one hundred times thinner. The needles are hair thin and will bend when you touch them. I have treated children with acupuncture and many have little reaction to having the needles inserted. Guide tubes are often used and when used correctly, they can desensitize the surrounding area, making the needle insertion feel like a small pinch.
Taking it Slow:
Everyone is different so while one person may feel very little, another may experience more sensation when the needles are inserted. I will typically use few needles in the first treatment to get a sense of how the patient will react to the needle sensation. A person’s reaction to the treatment will also let me know if more needles may be required, after all, if a few do the trick why use more! Any acupuncturist should include you in the process, allowing you to dictate the pace of the treatment. If you are feeling overwhelmed, if there are points that are bothering you, ask to slow down or have the needles removed or adjusted. Many people are often afraid to move once the needles are inserted you can’t move a single muscle. While moving too much can cause some discomfort, you don’t have to lie perfectly still.
Most of my patients are surprised the first time they get acupuncture and will make comments like “That’s it, that was easy”. And for those of you who just can’t get over the fear of needles, there is great news. Acupuncturist are normally trained in several healing techniques from acupressure to cupping to gua sha to moxabustion and many more. An acupuncturist who is also trained in Chinese herbal medicine can treat any condition that acupuncture can treat with the use of medicinal herbs.
At Princeton Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine, your comfort and healing are paramount, book a consultation today (see below). Come in, look at the needles, talk about what is bothering you and we will let you know what we can do to help!
Princeton Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Our patients know just how effective treatments are for these and a host of other problems. Steven Hoffman, a New Jersey Licensed Acupuncturist and Diplomate in Oriental Medicine, will provide you with a thorough intake and evaluation and a clear, comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan that will insure that your goals are met or exceeded. Do you want to move past these or other problems? We will help you thrive not just survive!