When I see a new patient I often learn that they have never had acupuncture before even though they may have tried any number of other avenues to alleviate painful and debilitating conditions that impair their quality of life. I often wonder why this is and why they didn’t pursue acupuncture sooner. I think there are a few main reasons why acupuncture is often the choice of last resort.
People don’t know all the different ways it can help them. This is a big one. Many people know that acupuncture can help reduce or even eliminate pain of all kinds. While that is certainly one of the most common uses, it is just the beginning. Acupuncture can also be a highly effective treatment for digestive problems, asthma, sinus infections, tingling feet, insomnia, high blood pressure, stroke rehabilitation, sciatica, irregular menstrual periods and so much more. (Conditions Treated)
Some people are skeptical. I can understand this. Who ever heard of sticking needles in your body and feeling good after that? But guess what? That’s what happens. Many of my patients feel better after the first treatment, even people who have suffered from chronic pain for decades. I know it sounds hard to believe, but it happens. People discover they can get help with things they have been resigned to endure. And this is one of the reasons that I love my job so much. It is thrilling to help people who are at the end of their rope.
Some people are afraid of needles. I can understand this too. But acupuncture needles are NOTHING LIKE the needles that your doctor uses to give you a shot. There is no medicine in the needles. They are solid and VERY thin. Oftentimes people don’t feel them going in at all! Sometimes it is uncomfortable for a fraction of a second just at the beginning, but this goes away right away. Acupuncture is not about tolerating pain to get better. And I am very careful about making my patients comfortable with the entire process. I love working with individuals to make the medicine work best for them.
Acupuncture can help you right now with whatever symptoms you have and you don’t need a western diagnosis to begin treatment. I look forward to helping you!