Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves inserting ultra-fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate and balance the flow of energy, known as "Qi" (pronounced "chee").
The basic principle behind acupuncture is that the body's energy (Qi) flows through pathways called meridians. When these pathways are blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to pain or illness. By placing needles in specific points along these meridians, acupuncturists aim to restore the proper flow of energy, thereby alleviating symptoms, pain to improve health.
In more scientific terms, acupuncture works by:
No, Acupuncture typically isn't painful but it’s not completely sensation-free either.
You might feel a quick pinch or a mild tingling when the needles go in, followed by a sense of warmth, pressure, or even a pleasant heaviness in the area. Most people find the experience relaxing, and many even drift off during treatment.
I’ve had patient say, “is that it”? Surprised that I have already inserted the needle.
As trained acupuncturists we use ultra-fine needles and tailor the session to your comfort level.
Depends on the treatment strategy, but normally 10-30 minutes.
The removal of the needles usually causes no discomfort and occasionally minor bleeding from insertion point. In certain cases, therapeutic outcomes may be enhanced through the application of adjustments, stimulation, rotation, or heat administered via moxa during treatment.
All needles are sterilised surgical stainless steel, single-use, and disposable, meeting stringent safety and hygiene standards outlined in the code of practice set by AHPRA/CMBOA for TCM practitioners in Australia.
First initial appointment is normally 1.5 hours, to allow for standard health history to be taken. After we discuss your main concerns with your health and how it is affecting your quality of life, I will ask questions concerning your sleeping habits, dietary and lifestyle choices, energy, and stress levels. I will also conduct a TCM tongue and pulse diagnosis, to determine the underlying root cause of your condition, and formulate a treatment plan based on this.
Treatment can include acupuncture, herbal medicine if required, other therapies like cupping, moxibustion, gua sha, ear seeds and dietary and lifestyle choices.
All treatment is only given upon consent, and for those who are scared of needles, acupressure or other alternative treatments can be applied.
Return consultations are usually 1 hour. We discuss how you are feeling, and changes you experienced following your initial treatment and perform additional treatment.
Wear loose-fitting comfy clothing that allows easy access to your knees and up to the elbows, clothes that can be easily adjusted. No skinny or tight jeans please.
These choices will help you feel comfortable and relaxed during your acupuncture appointment.
Acupuncture and dry needling are two distinct treatment modalities that involve needling specific points on the body. However, they differ in approach, perspective, and application.
Each therapy offers its own unique benefits and key features as shown below, providing a helpful guide to compare and select which approach best suits your needs, or better still you could use both.
| Aspect | Acupuncture | Dry Needling |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), over 2,000 years old | Western medicine, developed in the 1940’s |
| Treatment Philosophy | Balances energy flow (Qi) through meridians system to restore health and wellbeing. | Focuses on musculoskeletal conditions, targets trigger points and needling directly into muscles for pain relief. |
| Benefits | Targets physical, mental, emotional, and systemic imbalances. Treats both acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain. Addresses a wide range of ailments beyond muscle pain, including headaches, insomnia, stress, and digestive issues. | Quick pain relief, improves mobility, targets specific muscle groups. |
| Techniques | Needles left in place for 15-30 minutes. | 5-10 minutes, needle stimulated to produce effect. |
| Session Experience | Relaxing, meditative, mild discomfort, minimal risk, longer duration. | Quick, focused, temporary soreness, may cause twitch response. |
| Practitioner | Registered Acupuncturist (AHPRA/CMBOA), 4 years training. | Physiotherapist, Massage therapists, Osteopaths, Chiropractors. Minimal acupuncture training required. |
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