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Acupuncture FAQs

| Luis Echeverry |
Acupuncture Tampa FAQs DrivenFit SWS

Acupuncture originated in China more than 2,000 years ago and is currently one of the most commonly used medical procedures in the world. In fact, a survey from the National Health Interview showed an estimated 14 million adults in the United States incorporate acupuncture into their healthcare routine! Curious? Here we answer some of the most frequently asked questions we get asked by our clients…

Who can benefit from acupuncture?

Acupuncture treats a wide variety of ailments and conditions including allergies, pain management, surgical prevention/ recovery, disease prevention and health maintenance, fertility issues or other gynecological disorders.

How does acupuncture work?

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that imbalances in the basic energy flow of life (known as qi) are the main cause of illness and other ailments. Qi is believed to flow through pathways (or meridians) in your body and are accessible through approximately 400 different acupuncture points. When needles are inserted into these points, it is believed that energy flow will rebalance and allow for your body’s natural healing mechanisms to take over.

In contrast, Western medicine has its own theories about acupuncture and believes that it incorporates modern concepts of neuroscience. According to the National Institutes of Health, researchers believe acupuncture works based on the following explanations:

  • Opioid Release: During acupuncture, your body releases endorphins (part of your body’s natural pain-control system) into your brain and spinal cord, creating a similar effect to taking pain medication.
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation: Also known as the “gate theory”, it is believed that acupuncture stimulates the nerves in your spinal cord to release pain-suppressing neurotransmitters.
  • Blood Flow Changes: Acupuncture needles are known to increase the amount of blood flow throughout the body, supplying additional nutrients and removing toxic substances – both of which promote healing.

How many sessions do I need?

While the number of sessions is dependent upon your specific condition or needs, acupuncture therapy typically involves a series of weekly or biweekly treatments. Each session usually lasts for 30 to 60 minutes.

What can I expect from my visit?

Your initial visit with our resident acupuncturist, Dr. Sponaugle, will include an overall assessment of your condition, lifestyle, behavior, current medications, or other questions pertaining to your general health and well-being. She will use this information to create a treatment plan that bests suits your needs.

During the actual procedure, Dr. Sponaugle will insert individually wrapped, sterilized, stainless steel needles into the targeted acupuncture points. Needle insertions are generally painless; however, you may experience a sharp sensation when the needle reaches its target. After placement, needles may be gently moved or stimulated with electricity or heat.

Interested in giving acupuncture a try? We can help! For more information on our acupuncture treatments at our South Tampa wellness studio, please call or text (813) 440-3016.

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