That depends on the severity of the condition. For some people, the effects of acupuncture can be quite dramatic — they may feel the benefits after one session. For others, the response may be more gradual. In general, you should notice at least small changes in your condition within four to six treatments. If you are not seeing benefits, keep in mind that there is variability in the quality of acupuncturists. So before deciding whether acupuncture works for you, you could also consider trying a different practitioner. At Tianbao Health Center, the majority of our patient’s conditions improve after their first visit.

The stainless steel needles, normally about as thin as a human hair, are pre-sterilized and disposable. Unlike the hollow needles used for giving injections, acupuncture needles are solid. The acupuncturist will insert them to a depth of anywhere from a quarter of an inch to 3 inches, depending on the amount of subcutaneous fat that the needles need to penetrate.

If performed by a qualified, conscientious practitioner, yes. Licensed Acupuncturists know the human anatomy well, and insert needles in a safe fashion. The instruments used to penetrate the skin are either pre-sterilized and disposed of after a single use, or disinfected and sterilized in an autoclave, as surgical and dental instruments are after each use.

The practitioner is well aware of the concern regarding infectious diseases, and takes every measure to ensure cleanliness as all health care professional do.

Bleeding rarely occurs, unless done so on purpose in specific situations. Even then, the amount is minimal and in no way dangerous.