Acupressure follows the same principle except that it is practised by using the pressure of the hands to stimulate the pressure points. The desired pressure is applied on these points by using seeds, magnets and other instruments depending on the patient’s medical condition. Both Acupuncture and Acupressure, find their origin in India and other Asian countries.

Studies have revealed that Acupuncture helps people with diabetes by improving blood sugar levels, relieving the symptoms of neuropathy – a complication of diabetes – and more.

In modern-day China, healers use Acupuncture even to treat diabetes. Scientists researching the benefits of Acupuncture to treat diabetes have noted that it improves blood-glucose management and improves the functioning of the pancreas islet, which is responsible for insulin production, and thwarts insulin resistance.

No, the needles do not hurt. In fact, most people barely feel anything when needles are inserted. Acupuncture needles are solid, flexible, and very, very thin (about the width of two hairs).

There are certain sensations associated with the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. These may include slight cramping, heaviness, distention, tingling or electric sensation traveling along a meridian. If any discomfort is experienced, it is usually mild and temporary.

Acupuncture is widely acknowledged as one of the safest forms of medicine. Acupuncture needles are pre-sterilized, individually packaged, and disposable. One of the greatest advantages of acupuncture is that it has virtually no side effects. Occasionally, a small temporary bruise may appear at the site of an acupuncture needle.

The frequency of treatment depends on your medical condition. Many conditions respond faster to frequent acupuncture treatments, while other patients only need to come in once a week. Once your condition is stabilised, you won’t need to come in as frequently. When you come in for your first treatment, The Acupuncture Centre formulates a specific treatment plan for you.

When people come in for the first time, they aren’t sure how long they should stay and rest with the needles in. We often tell our patients to stay for at least 30 minutes for the treatment to take effect.

Resting with the needles in longer doesn’t necessarily mean you will get a better treatment or more benefit from the treatment. However, if you are in a restful state, feel free to stay as long as you like. The body heals best when it is resting.

However, if your mind is wandering and you aren’t restful, it won’t help you to stay longer. The best thing to do is to listen to your body.

Both acute and chronic conditions can be treated with acupuncture. Because everyone responds differently, the number of treatment sessions can vary for each individual.

Acupuncture may have a positive effect on many common mental health conditions including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress.

Research has shown that acupuncture can increase endorphins, which may relieve pain and improve mental health.

Loose, comfortable clothing is ideal. Loose clothing also gives the acupuncturist access to your skin with ease and allows you to relax well during the course of the session.

Initially, the benefits of acupuncture can last a few days to a couple of weeks after each session. Over time acupuncture can provide longer lasting, or even permanent relief from pain, inflammation and other problems.