Frequently Asked Questions about Acupuncture

1) How does acupuncture work?

From a biomedical viewpoint, there is no definitive answer to this question yet.  From a Chinese medical perspective, your body contains paths or meridians that flow throughout your whole body, distributing necessary nutrients, blood, body fluids, and qi, which translates as either air or function.  An unobstructed flow through these meridians maintains balance, harmony, and good health.
These meridians may be closely related to the nervous and circulatory systems according to some researchers. Acupuncture points correspond to key sites in the nervous system and are located in specific places where the meridians run closest to the surface of the body. When thin acupuncture needles are inserted into acupuncture points, the nervous system is stimulated to produce a therapeutic release of organic chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain.  Some of these chemicals increase vasodilation or blood flow.  Since blood carries nutrients and oxygen, increased blood flow results in tissue healing.  This is one biomedical theory of how acupuncture removes blockages within the meridians, stops pain, and balances the meridians to restore health.

Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment when performed by a qualified practitioner.

2) What conditions can be treated with Acupuncture and herbs?

At Blue Sky Acupuncture Studio we specialize in acute and chronic pain, digestive disorders, pediatrics, cancer support, and PMS and women’s health issues. We are not limited to treating the above listed health conditions, in fact acupuncture and Chinese medicine are great at treating a wide variety of conditions.
Below is a list of conditions that the World Health Organization has proven through clinical trials to be effectively treated by acupuncture.

This list does not include all conditions which may be effectively treated with acupuncture and herbal medicine. If you have any questions whether treatment can aid you with your condition, please feel free to contact us at 510-338-6952.

3) What should I expect during my first visit?

Please allow about 90 minutes for your initial visit and about 60 minutes for consecutive visits. During your initial visit there will be an in-depth discussion. We will discuss your health history, design a treatment plan and begin treatment.  People are often surprised at how relaxing acupuncture can be. The sensation felt around the needles can be numbness, soreness, heaviness or movement of energy.

Acupuncture is always performed with very thin, sterile, one-use only disposable needles. Your practitioner will talk you through the acupuncture process to make sure you are completely comfortable.

Please make sure to have a meal within a few hours of your visit. Some people experience feeling light-headed if they are hungry during an acupuncture treatment.