Acupuncture

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the training of an acupuncturist?

Acupuncturists are highly trained medical professionals. At the minimum, they must obtain a clinical master’s degree, pass national board examinations, and become licensed by the state. Like physicians, nurses, and other clinicians, they must maintain their licensure and board credentials with continuing education.

Henry Ford’s acupuncturists not only meet but exceed these requirements. Our team is formed of members with added training and certifications, such as oncology, sports medicine, addiction, and Chinese Herbal Medicine. We additionally employ acupuncturists trained to the doctoral level, including the DAOM (Doctor of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine), the terminal degree in the field involving research and specialization. Henry Ford employs some of the few in the entire state of Michigan.

How do I prepare for an acupuncture treatment?

• Dress in loose, comfortable clothing. Sleeves and pant legs should easily be rolled-up.
• Have a light snack or meal beforehand. Please avoid heavy ones, as it can make it difficult to relax during your session.
• Avoid caffeine before and shortly after treatments. It can potentially reduce the effectiveness of acupuncture.

What is the size of an acupuncture needle?

Acupuncture needles are known as monofilament or filiform needles, meaning they are very thin and “filament like.” On average, they are less than a quarter millimeter in diameter – much thinner than a toothpick or sewing needle. You can fit several acupuncture needles into the head of one hypodermic needle used for drawing blood.

Does acupuncture hurt; what will I feel?

When done by a properly trained acupuncturist, acupuncture is very well tolerated, even by patients with a fear of needles. There are sensations associated with acupuncture which are normal. These include achiness, pressure, heaviness, tingling, traveling, or a muscle twitch. Patients often describe these as “weird,” “different,” or “interesting.” Most patients report that acupuncture does not hurt and that they often do not feel the needle insertion.

I’m also receiving other treatments (e.g., chiropractic, massage, physical therapy, etc.). Will acupuncture interfere with them?

No, acupuncture is often used alongside many other treatments to enhance benefits. Physicians and other health professionals frequently refer their patients to acupuncture for added support.

Will acupuncture interfere with medication?

No, acupuncture will not interfere with your medication(s). The needles utilized do not introduce any medication into your body. In fact, in some cases, such as for pain management, acupuncture is used to help reduce reliance on medications.

I’m on blood thinners, can I still receive acupuncture?

Yes, patients on blood thinners can safely receive acupuncture.

What is dry needling; is it different from acupuncture?

Dry needling does not differ from acupuncture. Acupuncture encompasses a wide range of styles and approaches under its umbrella. What is known as “dry needling” is simply a renaming of what is known as trigger point or orthopedic acupuncture.

What is the difference between acupuncture and acupressure?

Acupuncture uses needles to stimulate acupuncture points for a therapeutic purpose. Acupressure also stimulates acupuncture points, but is non-invasive and used with therapies such as certain styles of massage. Acupressure is often applied in very weak or sensitive populations, such as children, the elderly, or emaciated patients.