How does acupuncture work?
Chinese medicine describes the body as a network of channels, and needling points along them helps restore flow and balance. Western research explains part of the effect through the nervous system: stimulating the points affects how pain signals travel and activates the body's calming response.
In practice, I choose the points based on the diagnosis, so two people with the same pain may get different treatments.
What does an acupuncture session feel like?
The needles are much thinner than an injection needle. As a needle goes in you usually feel a small tingle, and then a sense of warmth, heaviness or a gentle current at the point. This sensation is well known in Chinese medicine, and it's a sign the point has responded.
The needles stay in for about 20 to 30 minutes. During that time you lie quietly, and many people fall asleep. Afterwards most people feel calm, and sometimes a little tired.
What does acupuncture help with?
The strongest research on acupuncture is on chronic pain: back and neck pain, shoulder pain, osteoarthritis and headaches. In other areas, such as period pain and sleep, there are encouraging but small studies. I've written about each one separately:
- Acupuncture for back, shoulder and knee pain
- Chinese medicine and acupuncture for period pain
- Acupuncture for sleep problems and stress
- Chinese medicine for metabolic balance
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture given by a trained practitioner is a very safe treatment. I use only sterile, single-use needles. The common side effects are mild and pass quickly: a small red spot, occasionally a small bruise, or tiredness after the session.
Tell me before the session if:
- You're pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- You take blood thinners.
- You have a pacemaker, diabetes or another chronic condition.
- You're afraid of needles. In that case we'll start slowly and gently.
Questions
Does acupuncture hurt?
The needles are very fine, much thinner than an injection needle. Usually you feel a small tingle or a sense of warmth and heaviness at the point, and most people relax during the session.
How long does a session take?
A first session takes about 75 minutes including the conversation and diagnosis, and follow-up sessions about 60 minutes. The needles themselves stay in for about 20 to 30 minutes.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, loose clothes that roll up easily. It's best to eat something light beforehand.
Is it covered by my health fund?
Check whether your health fund's supplementary insurance covers part of the cost of Chinese medicine treatments.
Want to see if this is right for you?
Send me a few words on WhatsApp about what brings you in, and I'll get back to you to find a time that works. Sessions can be in English or Hebrew.