Does Acupuncture hurt?

No! At the most, the needles feel like a small pinch similar to a mosquito bite when they are inserted, then there is often another sensation that we call the “qi sensation”. 

This differs from person to person and can feel like heat, itchy, heaviness, a slight shock or a feeling moving down your limb. 

Sharp pain is unusual but occasionally occurs if a hair follicle or small blood vessel is hit, in which case I take out the needle and re-insert it.

Once the needles are in they should be so comfortable that you could fall asleep. Alternatively, if you cannot get past the needle part we can use acupressure and other modalities, such as cupping, instead.

What does Acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture treats a variety of illnesses and pain. Traditional Chinese Medicine is a stand-alone medicine that has been used in China for thousands of years. Here are some examples of what acupuncture can help you with: 

• Common colds/flu, allergies & asthma

• Digestive complaints- indigestion, acid reflux, IBS, etc.

• Insomnia, restless leg syndrome

• Hypertension, diabetes

• Stress, anxiety, depression

• Neck, shoulder and back tension

• Tendonitis, tennis elbow, frozen shoulder

• Chronic pain & arthritis

• Neuromuscular disorders such as bell's palsy and post-stroke paralysis

• Smoking cessation & withdrawal support

• Headaches, migraines & TMJ

• Menstrual irregularities & menopause

• Fertility & pregnancy support

• Morning sickness & labour induction

• Side effects of radiation, chemotherapy & other medications

• Immune boosting

How many treatments will I need?

Acupuncture is a series of treatments. Effectiveness depends on the frequency along with lifestyle factors such as stress, relationships, diet, exercise, sleep, hormones etc. The following are guidelines, but all depend on how you react to the treatments, whether the condition is re-aggravated, and your commitment to the treatment plan.

• Wellness and prevention – 1x/ month and more as needed

• Chronic Stress & related symptoms – 1x/ week during stressful periods

• Acute injuries (>3 months) – 3x/ week for 2-3 weeks then reevaluate

• Chronic injuries (1 year +) – 2x/week for 3-4 weeks then reduce to 1x/ week for 8 weeks

• Most other issues – 1x/ week until 50% reduced, then every 2 weeks, then once/ month

• Poor prognosis/ degenerative conditions – 1x/ week for maintenance

How should I prepare for my first treatment?

Just bring yourself. If you prefer to be clothed during your treatment wear loose fitting comfortable clothing that can be pulled above the knee and elbow. Most prefer to remove their clothing, leaving their underwear on, and be underneath the blankets.

What should I expect from my first treatment?

In the first session, we talk about the reason you are coming in and discuss your health history for about 20-30 mins. We do tongue and pulse diagnosis and then get into the treatment.

• After the intake, I will leave and allow you to get undressed and get comfortable lying on the table under the blankets. I will come back in and administer acupuncture and then leave the needles in for 15-25 minutes. Afterwards, there is some time to slowly get dressed and ask any questions you might have.

• At the end of the session, you will leave with the feeling of relaxation, take-home advice for health-related to your chief concern,  and a detailed treatment plan. 

• After your initial consultation and treatment, you can sign up for a follow-up session for 45 minutes or 60 minutes. 45-minute sessions are just acupuncture, whereas 60-minute sessions will include acupuncture plus one other modality such as cupping, moxibustion or gua sha.

What should my treatment post care consist of?

Drink lots of water and try not to do anything strenuous for a few hours if your schedule allows. If you do not have the time to rest after that’s okay, but try to remain relaxed to maximize the benefits of your treatment.

Where are you located?

Our clinic is shared with Lunenburg Chiropractic at 172B Lincoln St. in Lunenburg, NS. There is metered and non-metered street parking available.

Is the clinic accessible?

Yes, our clinic and treatment room is on street level and accessible.

What is your pricing?

Please see our pricing page for current rates that are subject to change.

Can you direct bill my insurance provider?

We can direct bill to Blue Cross, Telus Health, Sunlife and Greenshield. Every plan is different and covers different amounts of the treatment. In some cases plans do not allow direct billing and you will have to pay for the treatment in full and submit the receipt yourself to your insurance provider.

Have more questions?

Contact us