What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine, which consists of several other disciplines including pharmacopoeia, dietetics, moxibustion, Tui Na massage and energy exercises such as Taichi or Qigong.
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years in Asia. Numerous studies have proven its effectiveness in treating a large number of diseases. It is certified by the WHO (World Health Organisation) and has been listed by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity since 16 November 2010.
Acupuncture consists of the stimulation of specific areas of the epidermis: the "acupuncture points", located on the meridians. The meridians are channels of vital energy, present in each individual and that everyone can feel. This energy is called "qi" or "chi."
Acupuncture is used as a preventive or curative method to suppress imbalances in the meridians and in the body. In Asian custom, it is said that healthy people consult with their doctor in order to prevent diseases and maintain their good health. It is easier to solve a problem upstream and to prevent the evils rather than to correct the problems that have been settled for some time.

Acupuncture is generally safe if practiced by a qualified therapist. Some people may experience the following effects after acupuncture:

• Pain at needle insertion sites for 2-3 days.
• Slight bleeding or bruising at the insertion sites.
• Sensation of dizziness after treatment.
• Severe fatigue or drowsiness after treatment.
• A temporary deterioration of pre-existing symptoms.

Acupuncture is not recommended, if you suffer from metal allergy, are under anti-coagulation treatment or suffer from hemophilia.

• Is acupuncture effective?

The effectiveness of acupuncture is scientifically proven through numerous studies. In 2003, the World Health Organization (WHO) published a list of 28 indications where the efficacy of acupuncture is superior to placebo. Since then, more than 13,000 studies conducted in 60 countries have shown efficacy in 117 syndromes.

For more information: Click here

• Is the insertion of needles painful?

Acupuncture needles are very thin and not very painful. The needles used are sterile and 20x thinner than a needle used to draw blood. The diameter of the acupuncture needle is comparable to the diameter of a hair. The sensation of acupuncture is often compared to a mosquito bite with a dull sensation or electric shock. People who are afraid of needles are often treated with acupuncture without any problems. Needles are for single use only.

• How do I get dressed to receive my acupuncture treatment?

It is advisable to wear comfortable clothes and underwear. We make available clothes such as shorts and a t-shirt or a straitjacket if you do not want to undress. You will be covered with a sheet of paper during the treatment.

• How many treatments will be needed to treat my condition?

It is difficult to establish a standard number of treatments to treat a condition. The number of treatments needed will depend on the severity of your reason for the visit, its chronicity, your age and your health condition. However, it takes between 3 to 6 treatments to achieve a significant change in an imbalance.

• What is the duration of acupuncture treatment?

The average time for the initial meeting is about 1 hour 15 minutes. Thereafter, the duration of subsequent treatments varies between 45 minutes and 60 minutes.

• Do I need to believe in acupuncture for the treatment to work?

No, it is not necessary to have a favourable bias towards this practice in order for it to act effectively. This medicine also works with children who do not necessarily have preconceived ideas in this field.

• Can my situation get worse as a result of an acupuncture treatment?

Acupuncture usually has no negative side effects. However, in rare cases, it is possible that acupuncture treatment, by triggering the body's natural healing mechanisms, may cause a mild inflammatory reaction that usually lasts no more than 24 to 48 hours. Following such a reaction, the intensity of the symptoms for which you consulted tend to decrease significantly.

• Chinese medicine or conventional medicine?

Currently, Chinese medicine is mostly used when conventional medicine does not provide a solution to our problems. Chinese medicine is very effective for "functional disorders", whereas conventional medicine is better for an organic or biological problem. For example: antibiotic therapy for a bacterial infection, rather than acupuncture treatment.

• Useful links (English-language sites)

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156488.php

https://www.evidencebasedacupuncture.org/present-research/acupuncture-scientific-evidence/