ACUPUNCTURE
MELBOURNE
“Wooden acupuncture model, Japan, 1681.” by Science Museum Group is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
According to the ancient Chinese the body is comprised of a vast network of channels throughout the body through which substances (qi and blood) flow. These channels could be likened to the road system within a country. The Chinese identified a multitude of primary channels running throughout the body (like the country’s main road highways), as well as as a host of secondary smaller channels splintering off from the primary channels (all the smaller roads that connect up with the main highways). All these channels (both primary and secondary) are inter-connected and woven together in a complex web.
Imbalances (or illnesses) arise when there are blockages or impediments to the free flow of qi and blood as it circulates around the body. Acupuncture is the practice of inserting very fine needles into the body at specific points to influence and harmonise qi and blood flow. In this way acupuncture can be used to both treat dysfunction in the body as well as to promote health and well-being. Acupuncture is akin to sending in traffic controllers to re-establish traffic flow after a car crash on the highway from Melbourne to Sydney.
ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT
Needles used during acupuncture are sterile, single-use, disposable, and very fine. Needles are typically retained for approximately 20-30 minutes; during which time you rest and relax. For many people, acupuncture is an enjoyable experience that they look forward to; a time to switch off, disconnect from the outside world, and allow the body to activate its self healing mechanisms.
Acupuncture treatments may also incorporate any of the following auxillary techniques (where clinically indicated):
- Cupping
- Gua sha
- Moxibustion
- Electro-acupuncture: a form of acupuncture where a very mild electric current is passed between pairs of acupuncture needles.
ACUPUNCTURE FAQ
Does acupuncture hurt?
When performed by a well trained and experienced practitioner acupuncture should not hurt. A brief sensation or twinge may be felt as the needle is inserted, and then once the needle is in a slight ache or heaviness can sometimes be felt. But for the most part treatments are typically quite relaxing.
How big are acupuncture needles?
Acupuncture needles are extremely fine and much thinner than hypodermic needles used for injections. Needles used in acpuncture practise are typically between 0.2-0.25mm in diameter. This is about 10 times thinner than the average diameter of an injection needle (2.5mm), 4 times thinner than the average diameter of a sewing needle (1mm), and about 2 times thicker than the average diameter of a human hair (0.1mm).
Where do the needles go during an acupuncture session?
Needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points which lie all over the body. There are points located on the arms, legs, feet, toes, hands, fingers, abdomen, chest, back, head, face, and ears. There are many ways of treating various conditions and body parts, so if someone is uncomfortable being treated in a particular area points can easily be substituted using points in another location. This also applies in cases where it is not possible to needle in certain locations (for example; open wounds, active lesions, bandaged areas, or positional constraints – e.g. someone who is bed ridden).
How many needles are used in an acupuncture treatment?
The amount of needles used during an acupuncture session varies based on the particuar style the acupuncturist has trained in. The number of needles used is also influenced by a person’s condition, age, and needle sensitivity (typically the more sensitive and deficient a person is, the less the number of needles used will be). I typically use anywhere from 6-18 needles in a standard acupuncture treatment.
How long do the needles stay in for during an acupuncture treatment?
Once inserted needles are typically retained for 20-30 minutes.
What should I wear for acupuncture?
It is preferable to wear loose, comfortable clothing where sleeves can be pulled up to the elbows, pants up to the knees, and the abdomen exposed. This may negate the need to get undressed at all in many instances. In other cases I may need access to your back or higher up on your arms or legs, in which case some de-robing will be required.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is a very safe modality when performed by a qualified and registered acupuncturist. Registered acupuncturists have undertaken hundreds of hours of needling training and learnt comprehensive safety guidelines. Minor risks include soreness, bleeding, and bruising.
Can acupuncture be used while undergoing Western medical treatment?
Yes; acupuncture is quite safe as an adjunct therapy with standard Western medical care. It is important however to inform both your medical doctor and acupuncturist about other treatments that you are receiving.
How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
This depends largely on the condition, it’s severity, and how long it has been ongoing. More chronic and serious conditions will unsurprisingly require more comprehensive treatment. A treatment plan will be discussed with you at your initial consultation to give you a better idea about what to expect.
Where will I be treated during an in-home acupuncture session?
One of the big advantages of mobile acupuncture is that you can receive the treatment wherever you would like. While I do bring a massage table with me, many people feel most comfortable lying/sitting in a spot of their choosing (bed, couch, chair, recliner).
How do I arrange an acupuncture treatment in Melbourne?
To make an enquiry or booking, please refer to my contact page.
ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENTS IN MELBOURNE
For those in Melbourne, I provide in-home mobile acupuncture services. For details regarding the areas I service in Melbourne please refer to my Fees page. Acupuncture is frequently combined with Chinese herbal medicine, and for those in Melbourne herbs can be prescribed at the time of acupuncture treatment. For those outside Melbourne, Chinese herbal medicine can be used as a stand-alone treatment anywhere in Australia via telehealth.