Acupuncture in Toorak, Melbourne.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are very fine and are generally painless when inserted. Patients may feel a brief sensation as the needle is tapped in. Jess is trained in methods to make acupuncture as comfortable as possible for her patients. Most people find their treatments deeply relaxing with some even falling asleep during their session!

Does acupuncture work?

Yes. Acupuncture has been found to have positive effects for many areas of clinical concern including in gynaecological, reproductive, musculoskeletal, mental health and stress conditions.

Can I receive acupuncture while pregnant?

Yes. Acupuncture can be safely performed during pregnancy. Jess has completed additional training in fertility and pregnancy acupuncture. She uses acupuncture to support her patients in becoming pregnant, early pregnancy, threatened miscarriage, pregnancy nausea, pregnancy fatigue and preparing for labour.

Is acupuncture the same as dry needling?

No. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that is a part of a broader system of medicine. Dry needling is a modern musculoskeletal practice.

Acupuncturists not only make use of the local muscle trigger points used in dry needling (traditionally called Ah-shi points), but they are also able to use the meridian system to treat affected areas of the body by needling a different body area.

For example, to treat shoulder pain an acupuncturist may needle acupuncture points over the affected shoulder region and structures. Additionally, they can utilise acupuncture points elsewhere on the body that connect to meridians that run through the shoulder. Oftentimes, they’ll do both.

This is of particular advantage when patients have musculoskeletal conditions that are intensely painful and prohibit direct needling over the affected area.

Fun fact: One of the most famous and effective acupuncture points for treating shoulder pain (ST38 Tiaokou) is located on the lower leg!

Can I get a private health insurance rebate for acupuncture?

Yes. Acupuncture is covered by most private health insurers. You may need to check your level of cover and policy inclusions as acupuncture is often considered an extra. To check your eligibility, please contact your provider and quote the below item numbers.

Acupuncture initial consultation - Item number 103

Acupuncture return consultation - Item number 203

How long does acupuncture take to work?

Some people feel relief immediately after treatment, while others may need several sessions to start seeing the benefits. Acupuncture can be used for a wide array of health concerns, and as such, the time it takes to produce effects varies greatly depending on the condition being treated.

Jess will be able to give you an indication of when you can expect to see results from your acupuncture based upon your health history and presenting condition.

Where do the needles go in acupuncture?

Needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points along the meridian channels of the body. These points are located across all regions of the body including the back, arms, legs, torso and even the head and ears. Needles are not inserted into sensitive areas such as the breasts or genitals.

If there is an area on your body that you would prefer not to be needled, Jess can easily access the intended meridian using acupuncture points on a different part of the body.

How many acupuncture needles are inserted during a treatment?

The number of acupuncture needles used in a session depends on the condition being treated and the particular style of acupuncture that the practitioner has trained in. Jess will typically uses anywhere between 5 - 18 needles in a session.

How long do the needles stay in for?

Once inserted, the needles remain in place for 20 to 30 minutes. Jess will ensure that you are warm and comfortable before leaving you to relax with some music.

Jess may come and adjust some needles, feel your pulse for changes, and check that you are comfortable throughout the needle retention time.

Is acupuncture safe?

When performed by a registered acupuncturist, acupuncture is very safe. Risks are minimal and can include soreness, minor bleeding, or bruising at the needle sites.

Jess is has undertaken a double degree is Health Science and Chinese Medicine at RMIT University in Melbourne, and is a nationally registered acupuncturist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Can I get acupuncture as well as receiving Western medicine treatment?

Yes. Acupuncture can be safely combined with Western medicine treatments to provide an integrated approach to your health care. Many patients find that acupuncture treatments complement their conventional treatments by alleviating symptoms, reducing the need for medication, reducing side effects, and enhancing their overall well-being.

It is important to keep both your acupuncturist and your medical doctor informed about all the treatments you are receiving at any one time.

What should I wear to acupuncture?

Loose, comfortable clothing is ideal when attending your acupuncture appointment. This allows Jess to access the various body parts where acupuncture needles are to be placed. Needles are commonly placed in the lower legs, so it is advised to avoid wearing skinny pants or tights.

In the case that you are coming to your session straight from the gym or from work, you are most welcome to take off any tight fitting pieces of clothing and cover yourself with the towels provided.