Frequently Asked Questions

Is acupuncture painful?

Acupuncture needles are very fine, nothing like hypodermic needles. Often, you won’t feel them at all. At some points, you may notice a mild sensation—such as warmth, tingling, or a quick ache—that usually settles quickly. Most people find treatments relaxing.

What should I expect in a session?

Acupuncture works best when treatments are consistent and cumulative. Many people begin with a short course of 4–6 treatments, often scheduled close together, before moving to a maintenance plan if needed.

Your first appointment will take a little longer so we can go through your health history in detail (90 minutes).  Follow up sessions generally last 45–60 minutes.

Most treatments only require access to areas such as the arms, legs, abdomen or back, so full disrobing is rarely needed. If it is required, you’ll be properly covered with towels and draping to ensure your comfort and privacy at all times.

Why Acupuncture?

Pain management - Acupuncture is often used to help manage different types of pain, such as back pain, arthritis and migraines. By stimulating specific points, it may support circulation, relax muscles and assist the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms.

Emotional wellbeing - Many people use acupuncture to support stress reduction, improve sleep and promote a sense of relaxation. Treatments are tailored to the individual and can be a gentle way of supporting overall balance.

Sleep support - Acupuncture may help regulate the body’s natural rhythms and promote relaxation, making it a supportive option for those experiencing difficulty with sleep or insomnia.

Digestive health - Acupuncture is sometimes used alongside other care for gastrointestinal concerns such as bloating, reflux or discomfort. By targeting points linked to digestion, it may help support healthy gut function.

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Women’s and perinatal health - Acupuncture is commonly used to support women’s health—such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy-related discomforts, and general wellbeing during the perinatal period. Treatments are adjusted to each stage and need.

Immune and autoimmune support - Some people seek acupuncture to help manage symptoms linked with inflammation or immune system imbalance. Treatments aim to support the body’s overall resilience and wellbeing.

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Respiratory health - Acupuncture may be used as a complementary therapy for conditions such as allergies or asthma, aiming to support healthy lung function and ease of breathing.

Do you treat children?

Yes!  Acupuncture can be helpful for children and teens, but parental or guardian consent is always required.  Sessions are adapted to suit the child's age and comfort, and in many cases very gentle techniques - or alternatives to needles - are used.
 
The only requirement is that the child is comfortable and willing to try.

What is acupuncture all about?

Chinese medicine is a complete healthcare system that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary guidance, massage techniques such as tui na, cupping, gua sha, and various heat therapies.
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At the heart of this medicine is the concept of Qi (pronounced “chi”). Although it is often translated as “energy,” this word actually describes function and activity within the body. Qi refers to the processes that enable us to use air, food, water, and nutrients efficiently, as well as the natural functioning of our organs and systems. It includes everything from circulation and digestion to cellular communication and metabolic processes.
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In simple terms, acupuncture helps support the smooth flow and balance of these functions, allowing the body to heal and regulate itself more effectively. It’s not about something mystical—it’s a different way of describing the same physiological processes we already know, just expressed through another medical framework.

Who can benefit from acupuncture?

Acupuncture can be beneficial for people of all ages and health backgrounds. You don’t need to “believe” in it for it to work—animals, for example, respond well to acupuncture, and are not influenced by belief. What matters most is a willingness to see how your body responds.

How many treatments will I need?

Some people notice changes straight away, even if subtle. For lasting results, acupuncture usually requires a course of treatments. Your plan will be tailored to your condition, your health goals, and how your body responds.

Can I address more than one condition at once?

Yes. Because acupuncture works by supporting balance and healthy function, it often helps with more than the initial concern. Many patients notice improvements in sleep, energy, mood, or digestion while receiving treatment for another issue.

Is acupuncture painful?

Acupuncture needles are very fine, nothing like hypodermic needles.  You may notice a warmth, tingling, a 'travelling sensation' or a quick ache—that usually settles quickly. Most people find treatments relaxing.

Is acupuncture safe?

When performed by a qualified, AHPRA-registered practitioner, acupuncture is considered a very safe treatment. The needles used are single-use, sterile and extremely fine.

Are there times when acupuncture isn't appropriate?

Acupuncture is considered safe for most people when performed by a qualified practitioner. If you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or use a pacemaker, please let me know so that I can tailor treatment safely and choose the most appropriate techniques.

What's the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

Both use the same fine, sterile needles—but the training and scope are  different.

• Acupuncturists generally complete a four-year bachelor degree, covering anatomy, physiology, pathology, Chinese medicine theory, and extensive supervised clinical practice.  Acupuncture takes a whole-body approach, supporting pain, stress, sleep, digestion, women’s health and more.

• Dry needling is usually taught in short courses (sometimes just days) and focuses mainly on releasing tight muscles and trigger points.

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In short: the needles are the same, but acupuncture involves more training and offers a broader approach to health.

What about insurance?

Yes, many private health insurance funds cover acupuncture treatments.  I recommend checking with your insurer about your specific policy benefits for acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine services.

Valley Acupuncture uses HICAPs which streamlines Private Health Insurance claiming, leading to an improved patient experience through point-of-service claims.

Still have questions?

Call me!  On 0412 415 600 or email: hello@valleyacupuncture.com.au