What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to elicit a healing response. By targeting these points, acupuncture aims to enhance blood flow, prompt the release of pain-relieving neurotransmitters and hormones, and rebalance the body.
At Natural Wellness Albert Park we use Dr Richard Tan’s Balance Method which is used world-wide for pain management and other conditions. Thin hair-like needles are inserted away from the area of discomfort or pain, typically from the elbows to the hands and from the knees to the feet. To explain this physiologically, the practitioner places needles in specific areas of the body to signal to the brain to release certain natural pain-relieving chemicals and to stimulate blood flow. Acupuncture is used to promote relaxation and alleviate muscle tension by triggering the release of endorphins, generating a feeling of well-being.
What to expect during your acupuncture appointment?
At Natural Wellness Albert Park, your initial consultation involves a comprehensive assessment of your current health status, utilizing specific TCM principles. This session begins with an assessment of your pulse and examination of the tongue – observing the colour, shape, moisture and coating of the tongue – to assess the state of your internal health. We also look at your general medical history, nutritional status and lifestyle factors. With all this information, we identify patterns of imbalance in the body and develop a treatment plan to restore harmony and wellbeing.
A typical acupuncture session lasts between 45 minutes – 1 hour. At the beginning of the session, we discuss the areas of your health that you are interested in focussing on. We place fine needles in specific points of your body to target the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Our treatment rooms are well-ventilated and filled with natural light. During your session relaxing music is played in the background and lights dimmed for your comfort. You will be lying down and relaxing for between 20-30 minutes. During the session we may encourage the use of infrared wraps and heat lamps to enhance treatment outcomes.
Hygiene is of great importance to us. At Natural Wellness we follow the regulations from the Australian Chinese Medicine Regulations Board which requires that acupuncture needles are pre-sterilised and single use only. After use, acupuncture needles are disposed of in a Medical Sharps Waste container.
At the end of the end of the treatment, the needles are gently removed and most people feel relaxed and centred. We encourage you to stay well hydrated and in tune with your body’s needs. Chinese herbs may be prescribed to further enhance your health goals.