Acupuncture in San Antonio

Many of my fertility acupuncture patients come in asking, “so what does this do to help my fertility?” Let me answer some frequently asked questions. Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine needles, on the body’s surface, in order to influence physiological functioning of the body. As the basis of Acupuncture, the ancient Chinese theorized that the body had an energy force running throughout it known as Qi (pronounced ‘chee’). A person’s health is influenced by the flow of Qi in the body. If the flow of Qi is insufficient, unbalanced or interrupted, the body becomes unbalanced, and pain or illness may occur. Qi travels throughout the body along meridians that run up and down the body. Acupuncturists use specific acupuncture points along these pathways to remove blockages within these meridians.
The exact mechanism of acupuncture is still relatively unknown, but with modern technology we know that:

  • Acupuncture increases circulation of the body’s fluids which brings more oxygen to tissues
  • Acupuncture stimulates the release of oxytocin, the feel good hormone
  • Acupuncture reduces inflammation
  • Acupuncture reduces cortisol, the stress hormone
  • Acupuncture stimulates the body’s own healing mechanisms so the problem is fixed internally
Does Acupuncture Hurt?

  • Acupuncture needles are tiny – one may feel a slight pinch when the needle goes in, sometimes followed by a tingling sensation or a dull ache, which then subsides. People are usually pleasantly surprised at how minimal the sensation is from an acupuncture needle, and most people find acupuncture deeply relaxing.

How Many Treatments Will I Need? 

  • This can vary quite a bit from person to person and the condition being treated, but more often than not, you will need a of course of treatments for best results. Initially, weekly treatments are advised, and patients usually experience improvement within a few treatments. As the condition improves, treatments will then be needed less and less often. Generally speaking, however, the longer and more chronic a problem is the more treatments it will take to cure the ailment. For an acute pain problem you might experience relief immediately or the next day, and then within a few treatments the pain is completely managed. For a chronic problem, you might get treatments weekly over a longer period.

What Should I Expect from an Acupuncture Treatment?

  • Based on your confidential health history and current symptoms, I will make a Chinese medical diagnosis of your health complaint. I use this information to choose what acupuncture points I will use. We will usually talk for a couple of minutes so you can fill me in on any updates, and then you will get on the table for your acupuncture. I then let you relax with the needles in. It’s best to eat a small snack before your treatment, as getting acupuncture on an empty stomach is not advised.

Where Do You Put the Needles?

  • Mostly below the elbows and below the knees, on the belly, and a few relaxation points on the head.

What I Don’t Have Any Current Symptoms?

  • By receiving acupuncture – even if there is nothing specifically wrong – you are supporting your health long term by boosting your immune system to prevent sickness in the future. The treatments will also leave you feeling more relaxed with an increased sense of well being. It helps ensure all organs and systems in your body are functioning optimally and your body is continuously in a healthy, balanced state.