Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine gauge needles into specific points on the body. The aim of acupuncture is to promote metabolic functions and restore homeostasis. Acupuncture can help across a range of conditions including:

• Musculo-Skeletal conditions
• Digestive conditions
• Neurological conditions
• Skin conditions
• Ear Nose & Throat conditions
• Respiratory conditions
• Cardiovascular conditions
• Women’s Health conditions
• Urogenital conditions
• Psychological conditions

Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very fine gauge. Acupuncture needles are much thinner than needles (hypodermic syringes) used in vaccinations and injections. The sensation of an acupuncture needle is a little bit like a mosquito bite and this is sometimes followed by a dull, heavy feeling around the needle.

Is acupuncture safe?
In Australia, only single-use disposable acupuncture needles are used. Occasionally spot bleeding occurs at the needle site, though because the needles are very fine, this is very rare.

How long does a treatment take?
The first consultation, when a detailed history is taken, may take 1 to 2 hours. After the initial treatment, follow up treatments usually go for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

What are the side-effects of acupuncture?
There are very few side effects of acupuncture treatment. A feeling of euphoria, relaxation and general wellbeing is commonly experienced during and after the treatment and while this is not unpleasant, it may interfere with operating heavy machinery.On very rare occasions, you may feel faint or nauseous during the treatment, in which case the practitioner will remove the needles and have you lie down for a few minutes until you feel better.

Occasionally there may be slight bruising around the acupuncture needle site. The bruises are usually no bigger than a 5 cent piece, and clear within a few days.

How many acupuncture points are used during a treatment?
This is a very difficult question as practitioners will often use different techniques depending on the condition. A general acupuncture treatment will require anywhere between 2 and 20 points, however in a recent survey most acupuncturists said 10-12 points was the average.

How much does a treatment cost?
In Australia, prices vary between practitioners, however most practitioners charge between $50- $80 and may charge more for the initial consultation which generally takes longer. Some practitioners will charge extra for other treatments such as massage and Chinese herbal medicine.

Can I have too much acupuncture?
In China, acupuncture is often given to patients every day. However, in Australia this may not be practical. Acupuncture once to twice a week is ideal during the initial “crisis” stage of an injury or condition and this can be gradually reduced to once a fortnight, once a month and once every three months when the injury or condition has improved. Regular, ongoing treatments are advised to maintain good health.

Can Acupuncture and TCM be combined with other treatments?
As a general rule, acupuncture complements other treatments (including osteopathy, chiropractic and physiotherapy etc). It is important to inform other practitioners, including your GP, if you are having acupuncture or taking Chinese Herbal Medicines. Equally, it is important that you inform your acupuncturist of other treatments you are having, or medications you are taking (including herbs and homeopathic remedies).

What do I wear?
There are acupuncture points all over the body. However, the most common points are on the arms and legs and on the back and abdomen (stomach). Wearing loose fitting, comfortable clothing is advised- to make points easily accessible and avoid any discomfort during the treatment.

How do I know who is registered as an acupuncturist?
All acupuncturists in Australia must belong to a professional registering organisation, for example the Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine of Australia Association (AACMA) or the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS). If you are unsure, ask your local practitioner to verify which association they belong to.

Can I claim acupuncture on my Private Health Insurance?
In Australia, most Private Health Insurance companies offer rebates for acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Click here to view a comprehensive list of Private Health Insurance companies that recognise acupuncture and offer you rebates for your treatments.