Acupuncture Facts: Questions & Answers
Dr. Ronica Eve Perez L.AC is a top Acupuncturist in Tinley Park, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Ronica Eve Perez L.AC is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Ronica Eve Perez... more
Q: HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?
A: The classical Chinese explanation is that Qi (chee), an energetic substance, flows through our body in channels called meridians, just as blood flows through our veins. The Qi should be flowing harmoniously throughout the body but certain factors lead to this flow becoming disrupted. Factors that may lead to Qi not flowing properly include stress, over-taxation, or a poor diet to name a few. Pain, illness, or disease may result when the body is not in a state of balance.
The meridians can be influenced by needling the specific acupuncture points located on different parts of the body. The acupuncture needles unblock these obstructions, and reestablish the regular flow through the meridians to restore the body to a state of balance. In a balanced state, the body is more able to resist invasions, heal from injuries, attain mental and emotional clarity, handle stress, and much more.
The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body’s own internal regulating system.
The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.
Q: HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
A: The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions, more treatments would be needed. I recommend two or three treatments a week for the first two weeks. After that, symptoms are reassessed and more treatments may be recommended, averaging 12-15 treatments a year. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required. Some patients experience immediate relief, some experience pain relief two or three days after their treatment. If pain keeps coming back, more treatments may be needed along with lifestyle changes to prevent condition from occurring in the future. Health maintenance is based on individual preference. Some patients enjoy the time put aside for acupuncture as a time to unwind and relax while experiencing the health benefits that come along with it.
Q: ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS TO THE TREATMENT?
A: Usually not. As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination patterns, or a change in emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.
Q: WHAT ARE THE NEEDLES LIKE? DO THEY HURT?
A: People experience acupuncture needling differently. Some patients do not feel any sensations when needles are inserted. For the majority of points, there may be a slight discomfort when the needle is tapped into the skin and/or when the needle is inserted to the proper depth. When the needle has reached the appropriate depth, there is a sensation that is called ‘de qi’, which translates into ‘the arrival of qi’. Sensations reported with de qi include local heat at the needle site, throbbing, distending, numbness, tingling, achiness, a heavy sensation or pressure. Once the needles are in place, there is no pain felt. Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid and are made from stainless steel. Needles are properly disposed of after one-time use.
Q: DOES ACUPUNCTURE REALLY WORK?
A: Yes. In the past 2,000 years, more people have been successfully treated with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Today acupuncture is practiced widely in Asia, Russia, and in Europe. It is now being used more in America by patients and physicians. We encourage interaction with your healthcare provider so that we may offer the best possible treatment.
Q: DO I HAVE TO BELIEVE IN ACUPUNCTURE FOR IT TO WORK?
A: No. Acupuncture is used successfully on cats, dogs, horses and other animals. These animal patients do not understand or believe in the process that helps them get better. A positive attitude toward wellness may reinforce the effects of the treatment received, just as a negative attitude may hinder the effects of acupuncture or any other treatment. A neutral attitude (“I don’t know if I really believe in this.”) will not block the treatment results.
