Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture is one of the safest medical treatments both conventional and complimentary on offer in Canada. According to the National Institute of Health consensus statements on acupuncture:

In 1997, the National Institute of Health issued a consensus statement on acupuncture, which said, among other things:

“One of the advantages of acupuncture is that the incidence of adverse effects is substantially lower than that of many drugs or other accepted medical procedures used for the same condition. As an example, musculoskeletal conditions such as, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, tennis elbow or epicondylitis are conditions for which acupuncture may be beneficial”

According to the retrospective studies of acupuncture treatment safety,

“The frequency and types of adverse events in 55,291 acupuncture treatments demonstrated that 99.8% of acupuncture is performed with no significant minor adverse effects...”

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take weeks or months to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones.

Treatment frequency depends on a number of factors: your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem and the health and abundance of your qi. An acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week, monthly visits for health maintenance and seasonal “tune ups”.

What Does It Feel Like?

The sensation caused by an acupuncture needle varies depending where the acupuncture needle has been inserted, you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or a dull ache. Sometimes people experience a little pain as the needles are inserted, or a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle. This is called a qi sensation. All these reactions are good and indicate the treatment is working. Most people find the experience to be very relaxing, and experience a sense of deep peace and well being.

What Should I Do Before/After A Treatment?

Try not to have a large meal within 1 hour of your appointment, as the process of digestion may alter the pattern of your pulse and you may have to lie on your stomach. You should avoid alcohol and food or drink that colours your tongue such as coffee or strong tea. It is a good idea to wear loose clothing so that the acupuncture points, especially those on your lower limbs are easily accessible.

After a treatment you are likely to be relaxed and calm. If the treatment has been particularly strong you may feel tired or drowsy and its worth bearing in mind if you plan to drive or use any other machinery soon after.

Should I Tell My Doctor I Am Having Acupuncture?

If you are currently receiving treatment from your doctor it is sensible to mention that you plan to have acupuncture. Your acupuncturist will need to know about any medications you are taking as this may affect your response to the acupuncture treatment.

Always continue with medications prescribed by your doctor and never stop taking those unless told to do so by your doctor.

Will My Insurance Cover Acupuncture?

Insurance coverage varies from province to province. Contact your insurance provider to learn what kind of care is covered. Here are a few questions to ask:

• Will my plan cover acupuncture?
• How many visits per calendar year?
• Do I need a referral?
• Do I have a deductible? If yes, has it been met?