FRENQENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Q: I would like to come in for an acupuncture treatment, however I'm scared of needles! What should I do?

A: 1. Communicate Openly with the Acupuncturist:

• Be upfront: Tell the acupuncturist about your needle phobia during your initial consultation and before the treatment begins.

• Ask questions: Don't hesitate to ask about the needles themselves. They are very thin, much thinner than hypodermic needles used for injections.  

• Request a demonstration: Some acupuncturists may be willing to show you the needles beforehand, so you can see how small they are.

2. Understand the Needles and the Process:

• Thin and flexible: Acupuncture needles are hair-thin and flexible, unlike the larger, hollow needles used for injections.  

• Superficial insertion: They are typically inserted only a few millimeters into the skin, and the sensation is often described as a mild prick or a slight tingling.

• Different sensation: Acupuncture needles are not designed to inject fluids, so the sensation is very different from a shot.

• Relaxation techniques: Practice deep breathing or other relaxation techniques to help you stay calm during the treatment.

3. Start with a Consultation:

• Meet the practitioner: A consultation allows you to meet the acupuncturist, discuss your concerns, and get a feel for their approach.  

• Observe the environment: You can also observe the treatment room and ask any questions you may have.

4. Gradual Exposure:

• Start slow: If your fear is severe, you might consider starting with a very short treatment or just a few needles.

• Build trust: As you become more comfortable, you can gradually increase the duration and intensity of the treatments.

5. Focus on the Benefits:

• Remember your goals: Focus on the potential benefits of acupuncture and how it can improve your health and well-being.

• Positive reinforcement: After each treatment, acknowledge your courage and celebrate your progress.

Q: Can Acupuncture treat more than pain?

A: While acupuncture is widely recognized for its effectiveness in pain management, its potential benefits extend to a broader range of health conditions. acupuncture is used beyond pain relief: neurological conditions, digestive disorders, nausea and vomiting, respiratory conditions, mental health, reproductive health.

Q: How often are treatments required?

A: Here are some general guidelines:

• Initial Phase:

  • Often, treatments start with one or two sessions per week for several weeks (e.g., 6-8 sessions). This allows the acupuncturist to assess your response and adjust the plan accordingly.  

• Maintenance Phase:

  • Once improvement is seen, the frequency may decrease to weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly sessions for maintenance.  

• Acute Conditions:

  • In some acute cases, daily treatments may be administered for short periods of time.

• Chronic Conditions:

  • For long term chronic conditions, regular maintance treatments may be needed for long periods of time.

Q: How can I get an ACC claim?

A: Please contact Peter Tauranga Acupuncture Clinic for more information, regarding your claim.

Q: Why Choose Acupuncture?

A: 1. Pain Management:

• Acupuncture is widely recognized for its effectiveness in relieving various types of pain, including chronic back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, and headaches.  

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• It offers a drug-free alternative or complement to conventional pain management methods.  

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2. Holistic Approach:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine, the foundation of acupuncture, emphasizes treating the whole person, not just isolated symptoms.  

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• It aims to restore balance and harmony within the body, promoting overall well-being.  

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3. Complementary Therapy:

• Many people choose acupuncture as a complementary therapy to integrate with their conventional medical treatments.  

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• It can help manage side effects from medications or enhance the effectiveness of other therapies.  

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4. Wide Range of Conditions:

• Beyond pain relief, acupuncture is used to address a variety of health concerns, including:

  • Nausea and vomiting  

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  • Stress and anxiety  

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  • Digestive disorders  

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  • Respiratory conditions  

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  • Reproductive health  

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5. Minimal Side Effects:

• When performed by a qualified and licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture is generally considered safe and has minimal side effects compared to many medications.  

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6. Focus on Prevention:

• In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is also used to promote preventive care and maintain optimal health.
    

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