What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture uses fine needles inserted through the skin at points selected after assessment. The practitioner may stimulate the needles by hand or use electrical stimulation when appropriate.

The TCM perspective: Point selection considers symptoms and patterns involving qi, blood and the meridians. These are concepts within traditional Chinese medicine, rather than direct equivalents of anatomical structures.

Current medical evidence: Acupuncture may help relieve certain types of pain. Benefits vary by condition and individual, and its mechanisms are not fully understood. Read the NCCIH evidence overview ↗

Who Can Discuss Acupuncture With Us?

You can consult a practitioner about neck, shoulder, back or knee pain, or bring your previous diagnosis and treatment history for headache, migraine or another concern. Not every cause of pain is suitable for acupuncture.

Your practitioner will discuss potential benefits, limitations and whether further assessment is needed. Do not stop prescribed medicines or delay necessary medical care on your own.

What Happens at Your Visit?

1. Tell us about your symptoms. Explain your health conditions, medicines, supplements and previous treatment.
2. Individual assessment. The practitioner explains the proposed care, precautions and costs before you decide.
3. Skin preparation and treatment. Clean skin and sterile single-use needles are used. Heat or electrical stimulation may be added when suitable.
4. Rest, needle removal and follow-up advice. Points and the recommended number of visits depend on your condition and response.

How to Prepare

• Eat normally and avoid arriving on an empty stomach.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment area.
• Prepare a list of medicines and supplements, your medical conditions and relevant previous treatment.
• Tell the practitioner if you feel weak, have slept poorly, feel unwell or have previously felt faint during treatment.
• Confirm your practitioner and appointment time with your branch before travelling.

What Will It Feel Like?

You may feel a small prick as the needle enters, followed by aching, heaviness or tingling around the point. Sensations differ, and the practitioner adjusts treatment according to your comfort and response.

If you feel sharp pain, unusual discomfort or dizziness, tell the practitioner immediately. Minor bleeding or bruising can occur afterwards. Follow your individual aftercare advice and contact the clinic if you are concerned.

Precautions & When to Seek Medical Care

Before treatment, tell your practitioner if you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, take anticoagulants, have a pacemaker, or have a wound or infection at the proposed site. These details affect point selection and the suitability of electrical stimulation.

Risks include minor bleeding, bruising and dizziness; serious complications can also occur, although uncommon. Proper technique, sterile needles and an appropriately qualified practitioner are important.

Seek urgent hospital care for severe or unusual symptoms after treatment, such as difficulty breathing. Acupuncture does not replace emergency assessment or necessary medical treatment.