Acupuncture may seem like an intimidating treatment—especially for those with an aversion to needles. However, such apprehension shouldn’t prevent you from experiencing the many benefits that this treatment has to offer. Many believe acupuncture can treat a wide variety of conditions. Specifically, it may relieve discomfort associated with neck and back pain, headaches, respiratory disorders, dental pain, and chemotherapy. If you’re experiencing pre-appointment jitters, consider this guide on what to know before your first acupuncture appointment to help you prepare and keep calm.
Acupuncture is relatively painless
One of the biggest fears that people have when undergoing acupuncture therapy for the first time is that it will hurt. However, the insertion of acupuncture needles is relatively painless. In fact, many people who undergo acupuncture therapy don’t even feel the needle at all. Those that do, generally feel a very slight prick with a comparable pain level to getting an eyebrow hair plucked.
Don’t arrive on an empty stomach
If you undergo acupuncture treatment on an empty stomach, it may cause you to feel lightheaded, depleted, or dizzy. To prevent such uncomfortable sensations and fully maximize the treatment’s potential, you should eat a meal a couple of hours before your appointment. You could also consume a small snack right before you arrive.
Not your average needle
Unlike needles that professionals use at a doctor’s office, acupuncture needles are extremely thin—around the size of a strand of hair. In addition, such needles are also flexible, which makes their insertion far more comfortable than that of a hypodermic needle.
Expect “random” questions and requests
At your first acupuncture appointment, the therapists may ask you to answer some strange questions regarding your urinary function, menstrual cycle, or sleeping patterns. They may even ask to stick out your tongue, so they can observe it. While such questions and requests may seem completely random, trust that your certified practitioner has a good reason for asking them. Based on your answers, acupuncturists will be able to identify areas of disharmony in your body. This will help them address these areas in your treatment.
Understand potential risks
When a certified practitioner performs acupuncture, you can rest assured it’s a very safe treatment that generally only involves minor risks. Side effects typically include mild bleeding, soreness, or bruising where the acupuncturist inserted the needles. However, such risks may become worse if you have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners.
To receive acupuncture in Libertyville, IL, contact Libertyville Wellness Group. Experienced, certified practitioners perform our acupunctural treatments to help you yield the many physical and mental benefits this procedure can provide.
