How does acupuncture treatment help?
Acupuncture treatment is a representative Korean medicine therapy that restores health by regulating the circulation of qi and blood in our bodies. Acupuncture plays a role in effectively expelling pathogenic qi (evil qi, 邪氣) from specific areas and helping good qi (vital qi, 正氣) that is blocked and unable to flow circulate smoothly.
Acupuncture Treatment: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How often should I receive treatment?
- It depends on your health condition and the type and severity of the disease. In some cases, daily treatment is required, while for others, the treatment interval varies by individual, such as once every two days or 1 to 2 times a week.
- Sometimes people worry that receiving acupuncture every day will drain their energy; treatment intervals can be adjusted if your physical strength is significantly depleted. However, if your vitality (vital qi) is sufficient, treating daily to improve the condition quickly may be more effective.
Q. Is it better to receive more acupuncture needles?
- No! For the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment, an accurate diagnosis and the 'precision' of placing needles in the necessary acupoints is much more important than the quantity.
- If the treatment area is broad or there are multiple targets, the number of needles may increase, but sometimes sufficient effects can be seen with just a single needle. Unnecessarily numerous needles may rather cause even good energy to leak out, so we only use as many as needed according to the condition.
Q. Can I shower immediately after treatment?
- Yes, we recommend taking a shower about 3 hours after receiving acupuncture.
Before getting acupuncture, remember just this!
- It is better to receive treatment after a meal. Getting acupuncture on an empty stomach may cause dizziness, so we recommend coming in after eating if possible.
About the sensations felt during treatment
- Common sensations: Sensations may vary by area. A stinging or aching feeling when the needle enters is a normal reaction.
- Sensations requiring caution:
- If you feel a 'tearing sensation', please let us know immediately, as a blood vessel may have been punctured. Bleeding or bruising may occur.
- If you feel an 'electric shock sensation', please tell us immediately, as a nerve may have been touched.
- If it hurts unusually or feels strange, do not endure it; please tell us right away.
Precautions after treatment
- Temporary reactions: After treatment, you may feel slight dizziness, languor, or a lack of energy. These are temporary reactions that can appear as energy is being regulated during the treatment process.
- Importance of rest: Most people recover quickly after taking a short rest, so there is no need to worry too much. However, if discomfort persists or feels severe, please be sure to speak to the medical staff.
- What to do in case of bleeding: If bleeding occurs at the acupuncture site, you should gently press it with dry cotton for about 1 minutes to stop the bleeding. It is especially important to press well on areas prone to bruising, such as the face.
This text is an informational guide to help you understand your symptoms and prepare for consultation. Because causes and physical conditions may vary even for the same symptoms, diagnoses and treatment methods are determined after an in-person examination.