Acupuncture

Acupuncture is just one of the many treatment modalities that fall under the Chinese medical scope of practice. It is by far the most popular treatment modality we utilize as it is capable of producing an immediate physiological change in the body and thus patients obtain therapeutic results instantaneously. The practice consists of inserting fine sterile acupuncture needles into strategic locations throughout the body to stimulate the body’s nervous system which subsequently alters blood circulation through the vascular system. The results of this treatment modality are nothing less than extraordinary. By stimulating blood circulation, we are stimulating the body’s own healing processes. These healing processes are vital to long term resolution of health problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes, acupuncture is largely considered one of the safest treatment modalities in the world. At Chang’s Chinese Wellness Center, we practice “Clean Needle Technique” and use sterile, one time use only, disposable needles. Isopropyl alcohol is utilized to sterilize the treatment areas before needling. The practitioner’s hands are washed before and after every treatment. There is absolutely no problem with blood borne pathogens, infection, etc.
Additionally, 95% of the treatments administered at Chang’s Chinese Wellness Center utilize point locations distal to the elbow and knee joints. There are no vital anatomical structures in these areas and consequently there are little to no side effects from the acupuncture treatments.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Unfortunately one cannot claim that acupuncture is painless, but it should not be described as painful. The needles used in acupuncture are very different than those used by a western medical professional. Acupuncture needles are very fine, solid, and flexible. They are approximately the width of a human head hair. Their design is solely to stimulate the nervous system and consequently they do not need to be large and hollow.

There are two particular sensations experienced during the administration of the treatment. The first sensation is best described as a strong pinch. This is by far the most uncomfortable part of the treatment, but this sensation lasts less than five seconds and does NOT remain sharp or pokey throughout the acupuncture session.
The second sensation is what we consider to be the “therapeutic” sensation. It is described by patients as being heavy, aching, pressure, cramping, hot, cold, electric, etc. The actual sensation one experiences depends on what type of nerve fiber is being stimulated and everyone experiences it differently.

The difference between the first and second sensation is that the first has more of an intolerable edge whereas the second is more dispersed, vague, and unspecific. Although the second sensation can be strong, it is never considered uncomfortable and many patients even fall asleep during the session.

Can acupuncture help with my health concern?

Because acupuncture stimulates the body’s own healing processes, it can treat a wide range of health concerns. The following list is just an example of commonly treated conditions. Please check the “Treatable Conditions” page for more specific information.

Allergies/Asthma
Arthritis/Joint Problems
Bladder/Kidney Problems
Constipation/Diarrhea
Cough/Bronchitis
Drug Addiction/Smoking
Gynecological Disorders
Health Maintenance
High Blood Pressure
Infertility
Neck Pain/Stiffness
Paralysis/Numbness
Sexual Dysfunction
Stress/Tension
Vision Problems
Anxiety/Depression
Back Pain
Childhood Illness
Colds/Flu
Dizziness
Fatigue
Headache/Migraine
Heart Problems
Immune System Deficiency
Knee Pain
Pre-menstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Sciatica
Shoulder Pain
Tendonitis

How many treatments will I need?

At Chang’s Chinese Wellness Center, we don’t follow generic treatment protocols and consequently it is impossible to estimate the length of a treatment plan without first assessing the patient. Many factors will determine the length of one’s care. They include but are not limited to: age, overall health and constitution, dietary/lifestyle habits, the length one has had the health concern, medication regime, etc. The following guidelines generally apply to the majority of patients: younger people respond faster than older people, acute problems respond faster than chronic ones, and people who follow the treatment plan get better results than those who don’t. Be assured, the goal of our clinic is to “graduate” all of our patients. That means we want to get your concern resolved as quickly as possible and move you on to a maintenance program. Chang’s Chinese Wellness Center provides regular re-evaluations so you always know whether you are progressing or not, what the prognosis is, and that the treatment plan is appropriate to your current state of health.