In the Chinese language, acupuncture is described as “bu tong”, meaning painless. Any discomfort experienced with an acupuncture treatment is generally quite mild. It is normal to feel slight muscular cramping and heaviness, tingling, and/or electric sensation around where the needles are inserted, or traveling up or down the affected meridian.

In Canada, only disposable, individually packaged, stainless steel needles are used. Needles are never saved and reused for other treatments, eliminating all risk of contamination.

Depending upon the specifics of the health condition, acupuncture point location, patient’s size, age, constitution, and the acupuncturist’s methodology, the needles are typically inserted approximately half an inch, but may be as deep as 2 inches in large muscle areas (i.e. in the buttocks in cases of sciatic pain.)

This will vary, depending on your health problem. A single treatment could produce results for an acute condition or it may take a series of treatments. Some chronic conditions may require many treatments over time. For many conditions, an investment of 6-8 treatments can affect positive change, at which point re-assessment may be required. Ask your acupuncturist for an estimate about this prior to beginning treatment.

Prior to your first treatment, be prepared to provide your medical history and list of current medications. Come relaxed and wearing loose, comfortable clothing. You may be asked to remove some articles of clothing (shirt, pants or socks for example), and in those cases you will be covered by a sheet.

A very thorough assessment will happen at your first appointment. This will give the acupuncturist a very accurate look at your symptoms and conditions, and at your overall constitution.

Treatment starts by laying either on your back or stomach (depending upon the condition). Needles will be inserted where deemed appropriate and will be retained for up to 30 minutes (again depending on the condition.) An infrared heat lamp may be added to aid in the therapy. It is most helpful if the patient can relax fully during the treatment.

Although the treatment is generally without pain, if anything becomes painful or uncomfortable please tell your acupuncturist who will discuss any and all concerns about the treatment with you.

You may feel tired, or energized after a session. Your reaction will depend upon your condition.

You may notice a small drop of blood at one or more of the needle sites and a small bruise could develop. These should not be harmful, but please talk to your acupuncturist if you are concerned.

At this time, Alberta Health Care does not provide any coverage for acupuncture services. However, more and more private insurance companies are willing to provide coverage for appropriate acupuncture services performed by a registered acupuncturist. Check your plan for details.