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  • Ana Toriello, D.O.M., A.P.

Curious About Acupuncture but Scared of Needles?


You have probably heard about all the great benefits to acupuncture, such as better sleep, stress reduction, pain relief, and countless other conditions that did not improve until it was addressed by an acupuncturist. Only problem is that you are afraid of needles!

You are not alone. The number one reason why most people chose to not try acupuncture is because they are afraid and don't know what to expect. So here are some facts you should know about acupuncture:

1. They're not the needles you would expect

In the Western world we have associated needles with pain, such as the experiences we have all had at the dentist, getting blood drawn or getting a flu shot. But acupuncture needles are hair-thin and about 30 of these needles fit inside an 18 gauge hypodermic needle you would get a doctor's office.

It is the gentlest form of needling. If it hurt as much as you thought, we wouldn't be in business at all. Most of the time, my patients feel relaxed and fall asleep during treatments.

2. You are in control.

People assume that you cannot move during an acupuncture session and you are essentially "pinned down". I work as a team with you and we will go at your pace to your comfort level. Either I don't place them in certain spots or only do a limited time. I am also in the room with you the whole time so you are free to communicate your concerns the entire session.

Practicing Five Element Acupuncture, most acupuncture treatments are just quick in and out insertions as well.

3. There is no blood or puncture marks on your skins.

Many people assume that just like getting a shot or getting blood drawn, the insertion sites are going to leave painful, bleeding points that need a Band-Aid. Since the needles are so thin, it is rare to have a couple of droplets come out or pain after the treatment. There is no recovery time and you can go on with your day as usual.

4. We have years of training.

Besides extensive classes in anatomy and physiology, we go to school for 3 to 4 years to become an acupuncturist plus multiple national board exams to get licensed. Basically, we know every tendon, joint, nerve, and organ in your body as to do no harm.

5. There is more to Chinese medicine than just acupuncture.

Still not convinced to try the needles? We offer other modalities that are needle free, such as Chinese herbal medicine, cupping (a sort of reverse massage that helps circulation and free up any dead cells and old blood from the muscle tissue), Tui Na massage (a gentle massage that aims to free up the acupuncture meridians) and acupressure (massaging the acupuncture points).

In my experience, I have treated many people with needle phobias ranging from a slight discomfort to those who faint at the sight of a needle, and not one was regretful for trying it. Some of those patients were the ones who came back over and over again, leaving my office relaxed and happy.

So are you ready to overcome your fears and try acupuncture? I offer free 30-minute consultations to discuss your symptoms and address your questions, as well as mini 30-minute sessions for $45 for you to see what it is all about.

Call today at 954-652-6618 or Book Online to set up an appointment.

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