Challis Acupuncture Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine

FAQ

What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?
Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will feel like hypodermic injections at the doctor’s office. They won't. Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that you will hardly feel when I insert them. When I gently stimulate the needles they may produce a unique sensation that Oriental medicine calls de qi. Patients often describe de qi as a heavy, achy pressure, or spreading, traveling feeling. You may also feel an "electrical" sensation moving down the meridian pathways, though this is less common. Most patients find these acupuncture sensations deeply satisfying and leave the treatment feeling relaxed both mentally and physically.

Acupuncture treatment creates deep relaxation
in both mind and body.

 

How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more than one treatment is necessary. For acute conditions, you can expect a series of treatments, but you will usually begin to feel relief after just the first few appointments. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond, depending on the type, severity, and duration of the condition and typically require a more long-term treatment plan for optimal results. Nachelle will propose a treatment plan that outlines your recommended treatment schedule and wellness plan.

Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes. Acupuncture is used by millions of Americans every year. Acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education, including detailed study of human anatomy and training in Clean Needle Technique. Nachelle has passed all four comprehensive national board examinations administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and is licensed by the state of Idaho. She only uses pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles and fulfills continuing education requirements annually.

Can Acupuncture Prevent Certain Conditions?
YES! In fact, it is better to treat something ahead of time rather than later. Allergies, cold and flu season, and seasonal depression are just a few examples of conditions that can be treated proactively. Preventative treatments and tune-ups for general well-being are highly recommended. Being proactive about wellness, instead of reactive to illness, yields optimal results.

Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes. Nachelle is a well-trained acupuncturist who knows which acupuncture points to avoid during pregnancy and treats pregnant women on a regular basis. In fact, women often come for acupuncture to alleviate back pain, soothe morning sickness, minimize stress, and improve their immune systems during pregnancy. Women typically prefer to avoid medication during pregnancy, so they receive consistent acupuncture treatments to support their condition in lieu of medication.

What If I Am Afraid of Needles?
That's okay! Nachelle has worked with several patients who identified as having needle phobia. In fact, most of them reported little to no discomfort when treated with acupuncture needles. If you are scared, I understand. We can work together so that you are comfortable throughout the entire process. I will gently and shallowly place one needle at a time, checking in with you at all times. 

Can I Use Acupuncture In Addition to My Regular Medical Treatment?
Absolutely. Acupuncture complements other medical treatments very well. In fact, incorporating acupuncture into your regular medical treatments (physical therapy, western medicine, chiropractic care, etc.) often increases the effectiveness of all therapies. Acupuncture is commonly used in conjunction with western medicine to minimize the side effects of medications, improve health and immunity pre-surgery, facilitate optimal recovery post-surgery, stimulate healing after an injury, and promote emotional and physical well-being naturally to reduce or eliminate medical or pharmaceutical intervention.

Do You Treat Children?
Of course! Nachelle is skilled at treating patients of all ages, including young children who are curious and willing to try acupuncture.

Still have questions? Contact us to learn more!