Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine needles on the body's surface, in order to influence physiological functioning of the body. Needles are placed on specific points or "acupuncture points" throughout the body. Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine that originated in China thousands of years ago and which has since spread throughout the world.

Acupuncture can also be used in conjunction with heat produced by burning specific herbs (moxibustion) or by adding a gentle electrical current to the needles (electro-acupuncture). Another form of stimulating acupuncture points is by the use of pressure from fingertips on the points (acupressure).

Acupuncture treats more than just pain. Allergies, anxiety, depression, stress, panic attacks, asthma, fertility, facial rejuvenation, menstrual cramps and other gynecological issues (including menopause), headaches, autoimmune diseases, chemo side effects, as well as quicker healing from injury surgery or illness are some of the many issues that bring people to acupuncture. Diagnosis is based on looking, asking, listening and touching.

What is it like to receive acupuncture?

In a typical acupuncture treatment, you will be asked to partially undress and wear a gown, and lie on a table for the treatment either face down or face up depending on the points the acupuncturist is going to treat. Acupuncture needles will be placed in various areas of the body and left in place for about 20-40 minutes.

Most people look forward to their acupuncture appointments and find them very relaxing. You may be offered simple homework, such as dietary suggestions and/or exercises.

What training does an acupuncturist receive?

Acupuncture schools offer about four years of post-graduate training. Acupuncture students learn Western sciences such as anatomy and pathophysiology, as well as Eastern theory and practice.

In New Jersey an acupuncturist should be licensed by the state. National Certification is offered by NCCAOM on receipt of school records and passing national exams. See NCCAOM.org

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is considered a highly safe intervention in the hands of well-trained and licensed practitioners. Serious side effects from acupuncture are extremely rare. Minor side effects may include slight bruising in the needling area that usually disappears within 24 hours.

Are needles safe?

In the USA, acupuncture needles are considered FDA-approved medical instruments and therefore their quality is regulated by the government. All credentialed acupuncturists use single-use, disposable needles.

What if I am afraid of needles?

If you are apprehensive about needles, you may find acupuncture done by Ruth surprisingly gentle and relaxing. In some cases, especially initial treatments on children or very nervous persons, acupressure may partially or totally replace acupuncture.

Can I have acupuncture if I am receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment?

Yes, acupuncture is safe while receiving chemo or radiation, but you should always tell the acupuncturist if you have a bleeding problem or if you are taking blood thinners or anticoagulants, although bleeding after acupuncture needling is rare.

How many sessions of acupuncture do I need to see a result?

A typical course of acupuncture therapy is 10-12 treatments sometimes daily, sometimes once a week. In Asia acupuncture treatments are often given daily for 2-4 weeks.

You may not notice a clear change in the symptom for which you are seeking therapy after one treatment. In general you should try three to seven treatments before making up your mind about whether the treatment is effective for you.

I am always happy to confer with or to share information with your medical doctor or other healthcare practitioner at your request.