Debunking 4 Scary Lies About Acupuncture
Acupuncture Is Not Scary
The benefits of acupuncture waft in and out of social media and there isn’t an urbanite out there that doesn’t brag about their real estate agent, accountant or acupuncturist over their ice water, coffee and mimosa arrangements necessary to navigate Sunday brunch. Being part of the ‘I got a guy’ conversation is amazing. More amazing is the part where a weekly nap can improve my digestion, regulate my hormones, reduce stress and I jump out of bed before the alarm goes off?
Sounds pretty amazing … where do I drop off my first born child for these items? Most people are held back from the perks of this age-old medicine by a huge monster with many heads. The big scary monster is a fear of needles. The needle Hydra has many different fears. We hack through a few of these monster heads below and work through some of your fears.
Lie #1 - Needles Are Scary
They mean root canals, shots at the doctors when I was a child, and nurses that miss veins over and over and over again. Most of our trips to the doctors involve fluorescent lighting, uncomfortable tests, blood draws and vaccines.
This isn’t the case with acupuncture needles. They are more thin and hair like, so it’s less intimidating than the type you encounter in most doctors offices. In fact approximately 40 acupuncture needles can fit on the top of an 18 gauge hypodermic needle.
Lie #2 - You Can’t Move Once The Needles Are In
Remember you are running the show. Obviously you want to be in a relaxed state as you’re in the middle of your session but you don’t have to be rigid or stiff.
During your treatment, you may feel a slight pinch when certain points are inserted. This sensation usually dissipates after a few moments, and if it doesn’t, let your acupuncturist know. They can move the needle to reduce the sensation, or use another acupuncture point that will be more comforting for you. It is our job to meet you where you are at.
A tip here (heh heh). If you are having any reservations during your first few experiences, ask the acupuncturist to leave needles out of your arms. This will help you feel more at ease about moving if you feel like you want to while you are relaxing.
Lie #3 - Acupuncturists Reuse Needles
No, we don’t. At Mighty River Wellness, we use individual sterilized Seirin needles. This is the highest quality needle and moves in between the muscle fibers easily. After the needle is used, it is removed and disposed of in a safe needle disposal container. We never reuse needles.
Lie #4 - It Doesn’t Matter Where They Stick The Needles
It’s important for all acupuncturists to know where to place needles and why. Specific acupuncture points are located along a meridian or channel. Being from Los Angeles, I always refer to a meridian as a ‘freeway’ and the acupuncture points are ‘exits’ Depending on the feel of certain acupuncture points along the meridian an acupuncturist knows whether or not to move energy towards or away that point. It is a method where we are tuning your system so you can feel and function your best.
In closing, there are a few hacks to consider to make your treatment more effective. You will generally expect to feel a better sense of well being and extremely relaxed after your treatment. Make a habit of maximizing your visits by limiting the amount of activities you do that day. This is why Mighty River Wellness makes a point of accommodating patients looking for self care on Saturdays and Sundays. Do NOT rush around and squeeze a treatment in before you get in your car and drive to another commitment.
Avoid drinking coffee or stimulants before your treatment, and be sure to eat before your appointment. PLEASE TURN YOUR PHONE OFF. Please do not play with your phone during your visit. There is no need to check on social media, text, or play Candy Crush Saga. It is always amazing to me how much we idly look at our phone for answers. This is a time to shut off the flooding electronic tsunami for 30 minutes of your day and allow your nervous system to rest a minute.
