For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health maintenance, four sessions a year may be all that is necessary. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination patterns, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.
Most patients feel only minimal pain as the needles are inserted, some feel no pain at all.
Once the needles are in place, there is no pain felt. Because your doctor uses disposable needles, there is no risk of infection from the treatments. In the past 2,000 years, more people have been successfully treated with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time other techniques are being used, such as conventional Western medicine, osteopathic or chiropractic adjustments, and homeopathic or naturopathic prescriptions. Some insurance companies currently cover acupuncture costs, other companies do not yet recognize the value of acupuncture.