Many doctors and people say that acupuncture can work wonders for pain, stress, inflammation, and other ailments. But what if you are like me and are just slightly terrified of needles. You may think that then this is definitely not the treatment plan for you. If you are a bit leery like I was then this is the article for you. Today I will go over a few tips that helped me to face my fear.
What is acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine that involves inserting very thin needles through a person’s skin at specific points on the body. It is believed that it can help relieve pain and be used for various other complaints. There are various acupuncture points where nerves, muscles, and connective tissue can be stimulated. The stimulation increases blood flow. This helps with inflammation while at the same time triggering the activity of the body’s natural painkillers.
What Can It help
Medical News Today states that “Research carried out in Germany has shown that acupuncture may help relieve tension headaches and migraines.” Other studies have shown that it can be helpful with low back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis,knee pain, headache and migraine. It has also shown to possibly be effective with other conditions such as high blood pressure, sciatica, and aiding in weight loss.
Conquering Your Fear
Fear of needles is pretty common. Lets face it they can hurt. But acupuncture is much different than a needle at the doctor. Here is what helped me
- Know what to expect: When you are facing a fear it is helpful to know what to expect. This can help you prepare mentally. I researched acupuncture and found out the needles are alot smaller that I was imagining. About as big as a strand of hair. Your licensed acupuncturist will examine you to asses what treatment will be appropriate. They will then insert sterile needles at the acupuncture points they deem the most beneficial. Depending on where the needles will be inserted You can lie down on your back, front, or one side. Single-use, disposable, sterile needles will be used.It will be relatively painless. You may possibly feel a sting or a pinch in some sensitive spots but that’s it. The acupuncturist will leave the needles in place for between 5 and 30 minutes.
- Ask Questions: When you arrive and before your procedure ask questions. Take the time to allow your licensed acupuncturist to answer any questions you may have. My acupuncturist took the time to walk me thru the entirety of what was going to occur. He also explained what spots he would apply the needles to, why those spots, and what I could hopefully expect.
- A Place You Trust: Find a place you feel comfortable and like you can trust. If you trust your choice then you will be less anxious and able to relax during your procedure.
My Acupuncture Experience
So from the title I’m sure you can tell needles scare me. When I was offered the opportunity to try acupuncture I was just slightly worried ( I underestimate lol). Before my procedure I followed my steps to try to calm my fears. I went to Modern Acupuncture. Here is my experiences
Logistics:
Modern Acupuncture
Village at Arrowhead
20022 N 67th Ave Suite A116 Glendale Az 85308
(623) 266-8688
modacu.com
Modern Acupuncture
Before you go you have the option to fill out your history online. This will save the time of needing to fill out paperwork when you go to your appointment. When you first go in to Modern Acupuncture its a small waiting area. Very clean and relaxing. If you are early they have water and tea available.
Once it is time for your appointment they will take you back to where your licensed acupuncturist will work on you. Before you enter the acupuncture area they ask you to silence your phone so that you can focus on relaxation. Once you are in back there are these comfy chairs that recline, massage, and heat up. Can you say nap time? They have a basket next to each chair for shoes and whatever else you don’t feel like holding. Super relaxing atmosphere and a TV playing relaxing scenes of places I want to visit. Each chair is separated by curtains to ensure privacy.
When you are comfortable your acupuncturist can begin. I think mine could tell I was nervous because he thoroughly explained each step before we started. He did a assessment and poked me in spots to see what was tender. I knew my shoulder hurt but he poked my arm and he told me it indicated muscle tightness in my neck leading to my shoulder. Anyway if you are scared of needles I can tell you from one fraidy cat to another I didn’t feel any except for one. This time when someone said just a pinch it really was just a pinch.
After your session they will offer you tea. TAKE the tea lol. It is delicious. I had their lavender blueberry seasonal one and OMG. The tea plays a important part in hydration so even if you don’t want tea a bit of water will be good.
What I Took Away
I was proud I overcame my fear and was able to embrace this experience. I was able to see immediate benefits. Having done physical therapy, massage, and chiropractic care before this is another tool in my health journey. I felt immediate relief on my shoulder. About 8 months ago I went to sleep fin and woke with extreme pain in my shoulder. I have tried various methods some were successful and some were not. This one was a success. slept so good last night which is usually hard for me and my shoulder feels fantastic.
If you are in the West or NW Valley of Phoenix I highly recommend Modern Acupuncture on 67th ave. If you are not near then find a place that you feel comfortable with. Make sure to do your homework so that you can ensure you have a positive experience.
