Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a system of medicine developed in China that has a different history and approach to Western medicine. Rather than treating disease, a Chinese medicine practitioner treats patterns of disharmony (or symptom clusters) in a patient. 
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into the skin on specific points on the body. It is considered a method of balancing the flow of energy, also known as Qi, along the pathways known as meridians. In other words, it is a way of stimulating the body’s own regulatory mechanisms in order to encourage healing. 

Can acupuncture help with my problem?

Often people are aware of acupuncture for back pain or migraines and don’t always realise that it is a comprehensive system of natural medicine. Acupuncture can treat a very wide range of health conditions. 
Get in touch with Samantha to discuss your individual health.

How often will I need acupuncture?

Everyone is different, and the more chronic your condition, the longer it will take to rebalance your body and allow it to heal. 
Generally though, you should start to see improvement within 2-3 treatments.  Within 4-6 weekly treatments, you should see steady improvement in your health.
During every treatment Samantha will review your progress with you and carefully monitor your treatment to ensure that it matches your needs.

Is it safe?

Chinese medicine is generally considered to be safe but occasionally (as with all health treatments) it may be associated with possible adverse reactions in individual cases.
As both a registered acupuncturist in Australia and a member of ANTA, Samantha observes a strict code of safe practice which governs the standard of care and level of conduct.
Samantha has completed lengthy and comprehensive training in Chinese and Western medicine and continues her professional development with seminars and study groups, see more info about Samantha.

Are the needles sterile?

Yes. All needles are sterile, high quality, single-use disposable needles. They are much thinner than the needles used for injections and they are also solid with a tapered tip resulting in a smoother, more gentle insertion.

What does it feel like?

People often feel a tingling sensation or a dull ache around the needle and this is an indication that it is working as it should. Acupuncture should not be a painful or unpleasant experience. Many people feel relaxed during treatment, some even fall asleep!

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

No. Come along if you feel acupuncture could help you.

Should I stop taking my medications for acupuncture to work?

No. You should never come off medications unless under strict supervision from your doctor. Acupuncture can work in conjunction with Western medicine.

Can I use my private health insurance?

Yes. Many major healthcare funds will cover your acupuncture treatment with Samantha, see details here.

Where are you?

Samantha offers acupuncture in South East Melbourne, at her clinic in Berwick.

Do you have a privacy policy?

Yes, please find our privacy policy here.