Acupuncture in Oakville

Acupuncture Treatment Frequently Asked Questions

JUMP TO SECTION:

What is acupuncture?

Does acupuncture hurt?

How many treatments will I need?

What happens during an acupuncture treatment?

What conditions can acupuncture treat?

How does acupuncture work?

Do I  have to believe in it for acupuncture to work?

Is acupuncture safe?

Are there any side effects of complications?

Are there any contraindications for acupuncture?

Are the needles clean?

What should I  expect at my first visit?

Can children receive acupuncture?

Is there insurance coverage for acupuncture?


What is acupuncture?

 Acupuncture originated in China 2000-3000 years ago and is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world.  Acupuncture started to become more popular in Canada in 1971, when New York Times reporter James Reston wrote about how doctors in China used needles to ease his pain after surgery.

 The term acupuncture describes a family of procedures involving stimulation of anatomical points on the body by a variety of techniques. The acupuncture technique that has been most studied scientifically involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation.

 From a Traditional Chinese perspective, your body has several channels (or meridians) through which you life energy (Qi) flows. Acupuncture is a means of adjusting the body's life energy (Qi) through the insertion of fine needles into carefully selected acupuncture points along the meridians of the body.


Does  acupuncture hurt?

 It is rare that someone finds an acupuncture treatment to be painful. Most people enjoy treatment and find it very comfortable, and relaxing.  That does not mean that treatments are devoid of sensation.  Sometimes the needle insertion feels like a quick pinch that rapidly subsides.  Some people report a mild tingling, heaviness, warmth, or a dull ache at the acupuncture point, which is a sensation of Qi moving.  Acupuncture needles are rounded at the end and therefore do not cut the skin like regular injection needles do.  After the treatment it is common for the patient to feel a tremendous sense of relaxation.


How many treatments will I need?

 The number of treatments that is required will depend on the severity and duration of the symptoms that you would like to address. The number of treatments can also depend on your goals.  For many acute conditions, one or two treatments can be very helpful. For chronic health conditions of years or even life-long duration, a longer course of treatment is normally required. Within the first 4-6 sessions, the effectiveness of the treatment is often evident. 


What happens during an acupuncture treatment?

 Acupuncture needles are inserted into specific points and are then manipulated using electrical stimulation or with the hands to create a gentle pumping action, by twirling or leaving in the needle in place for a few minutes. These motions help to enhance the effect of the needles by stimulating the release of your body's natural anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, hormones and neurotransmitters that our nerves, brain and organs use to communicate.  From a Traditional Chinese perspective, stimulating specific acupuncture points in the body helps to regulate the flow of energy (Qi) and remove blockages in our energy channels (meridians). It is important that the Qi is flowing properly in the body, in order to restore balance and be healthy.


What conditions does acupuncture treat?

 The World Health Organization (WHO) lists approximately four dozen different conditions that can legitimately be treated by acupuncture. The most common uses for acupuncture in our clinic include: 

  • Bone and Joint Problems including arthritis, low back pain, neck pain, sciatica, whiplash, shoulder rotator cuff injuries
  • Muscular Problems including inflamed, injured or strained muscles, ligament sprains
  • Nerve Related Problems including sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, numbness and tingling
  • Headaches including migraines, cluster and tension type
  • Disorders of the Head and Face including facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia, vertigo, sinusitis, tinnitus or "ringing in the ears."

Dr. McGlashan uses a  medical acupuncture approach to treat conditions related 

to  the nerves , joints, and bones in the body. .


How does acupuncture work?

 Although many theories have been presented, there is still no easy answer as to exactly how acupuncture works.  One explanation is that acupuncture helps to stimulate your body's natural pain killers (endorphins), which can help to relieve the pain associated with certain conditions.  Another theory is that acupuncture influences the release of certain neurotransmitters, which are what our nerves use to communicate with our organs, muscles and all the cells in our body.  This theory explains why acupuncture is helpful with a variety of nerve and organ related conditions, sleep disorders, muscle and joint problems. A third explanation is that acupuncture helps to stimulate the release of the bodies' natural vasodilators, which help to improve circulation to the injured area, remove wastes and promote healing.  Although we may not know precisely how it works, studies have shown that it does work for many people and is effective for a wide variety of conditions.


Do I have to believe in it for it to work?

 No, you do not have to believe in it for it to work. While having a positive state of mind helps with any type of treatment, conventional or otherwise, it is not necessary to "believe" in acupuncture for it to work. This is evidenced by clinical study of "non-believers," and by the fact that animals and small children who cannot be instructed to "believe" receive relief through the use of acupuncture.


Is acupuncture safe?

 This is a very common question among those who have never experienced an acupuncture treatment. The answer does depend on the skill of the practitioner. If he or she is unsure of what they are doing, it is certainly possible to inflict injury with an acupuncture needle. However, when practiced by a licensed, trained acupuncturist, acupuncture is extremely safe. One of the great aspects about acupuncture is that it can help with a variety of conditions without making you drowsy, spaced out, or nauseous or without some of the other side effects of drugs or medications.


Are there any side effects or complications?

 As previously mentioned, acupuncture is an extremely safe method of treatment, and as such, side effects and complications are extremely rare when treated by an experienced, licensed practitioner. However, a small number of patients do have reactions to the procedure which may include nausea, lightheadedness and fainting. As in any matter pertaining to health, any concerns should be discussed with the practitioner prior to treatment and following treatment to ensure maximum effectiveness.


Are there any contraindications for acupuncture?

 There are very few situations where acupuncture is not advised. These are the most common:
• Patients with bleeding disorders (hemophillia)
• Pregnant patients - certain acupuncture points should not be used during pregnancy
• If the patient has a severe psychotic condition
• If the patient is under the influence of drugs or alcohol


Are the needles clean?

 Before undergoing any acupuncture treatment, ask the practitioner about their sterilization procedures. All registered acupuncturists are required by law to sterilize needles. In our office, we only use disposable, sterile needles which are discarded after the treatment of each patient. Your safety is our greatest concern.


What should I expect on my first visit?

 After booking your appointment you will receive electronic forms by email to fill in prior to your appointment.  These forms provide the doctor with your health history and information about your health concern. Your doctor will greet you at the front entrance and bring you to one of our comfortable treatment rooms.  

The y will discuss your health concerns and health history and then an examination will be performed which may include testing your blood pressure, pulses, reflexes, strength or flexibility. Other standard neurological, orthopedic, postural, and physical or TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) tests may also be performed. However, nothing will be done in our office without your consent.
Once the doctor has completed their examination they will discuss their findings with  you,  and let you know what they feel is the best course of care to help you.  Your practitioner will provide an opportunity for you to ask any questions before signing the consent form, and then  perform your first treatment.  Our practitioners are happy to answer questions anytime during your treatment. 
Prior to leaving, the doctor may suggest some simple instructions, exercises, or home therapies to supplement your treatments in the clinic.  If you are in pain when you first come into our office this may include: ice or heat application instructions, certain activities or positions to avoid, and at home exercises and/or stretches.  

Can children receive acupuncture?

 Yes, children can receive acupuncture and often respond very well. However, in cases where the child is uneasy about the needles, a practitioner may choose to use an acupressure treatment (massage of the acupuncture points), as opposed to acupuncture.


Do insurance companies cover acupuncture treatment?

 Many insurance companies provide coverage for acupuncture. However, the acupuncture treatments given by Dr. Christina McGlashan fall under your Chiropractic benefits. 


BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH DR. MCGLASHAN TODAY!


Location

Find us on the map

Clinic Hours

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

9:00 am - 1:00 pm

3:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Wednesday

1:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Thursday

9:00 am - 1:00 pm

3:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Friday

8:30 am - 3:00 pm

Saturday

8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Sunday

Closed

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
9:00 am - 1:00 pm 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Wednesday
1:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Thursday
9:00 am - 1:00 pm 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Friday
8:30 am - 3:00 pm
Saturday
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sunday
Closed