You have probably heard the term “acupuncture”, but are unsure exactly what the process entails. Acupuncture is an excellent alternative therapy for a number of conditions including pain, obesity, depression and anxiety. This article will teach you more about acupuncture, and you might even choose to try it for yourself.

If you are nervous about acupuncture, and you are not sure if it is right for you, do not be afraid to ask questions. Believe it or not, one of the most common inquiries is whether or not the acupuncturist practices a painless style of treatment. Your fears may be eased when you hear some of the answers.

If you’re apprehensive about visiting a chiropractor, fear not! The needles are not nearly as large as the one your physician uses, and most people report hardly feeling them at all. The minor discomfort you may feel from a session of acupuncture will be well worth the total relief you will feel thereafter!

Make sure that you practice good hygiene on the day of your acupuncture appointment. If you attend an appointment without properly cleansing your skin, there is a chance that you can get an infection when the needles are inserted. Shower as close to your appointment time as you can to decrease this risk.

If you feel pain during an acupuncture session, let your practitioner know. A small prick is normal when the needle is inserted, but you should not feel anything beyond that. More intense pain can mean that the practitioner hit a nerve, and this can cause you to experience adverse side effects if it is not immediately addressed.

If you’re feeling a little sore after an acupuncture session, the best way to treat that soreness is with heat. Post-session pain is usually caused by blockages, and ice may only exacerbate the problem. Most soreness is gone within 24 hours, so a hot bath and a good night’s sleep should do the trick.

You might be busy, but following an acupuncture appointment, you need resting time. Acupuncture is supposed to restore you mentally and physically, but it can’t work if your body doesn’t get its necessary rest. Try your best to sleep for at least 8 hours.

If you feel very tired after an acupuncture treatment, you should get some rest. Acupuncture is supposed to give you some energy but you will not get this positive effect if you need some sleep. It is important to get eight hours of sleep a night until your next treatment.

Do not be surprised if you are a bit lightheaded our dizzy after having acupuncture done. During your session, you are laying down and blood may rush to your head. When you get up, this may cause you to feel dizzy or light headed. Get up slowly and try to sit up for a few minutes before standing.

Now you understand that acupuncture has more to it than what you see on the surface. Hopefully, this article has taken some of the mystery out, and replaced it with good knowledge about its benefits. You are now much better informed, so you can give it a shot.