Acupuncture is being used more as an alternative form of treatment for its many benefits and approaches to healthcare. However, a common question that is naked about acupuncture therapy is how long does acupuncture take? The answer is influenced by various factors such as the condition being treated, the severity of the symptoms, and the patient’s reaction to receiving the treatment.
In this blog, we will look into the average duration of an acupuncture session, what factors can impact your session, and what to expect from a typical acupuncture session.
What is Acupuncture and How Does it Work?
Acupuncture has often been preferred as an alternative form of treatment in recent times compared to traditional treatment methods. As acupuncture is being used more frequently and becoming more popular in the healthcare industry, it’s important to understand what it is and how it works.
Acupuncture therapy involves the insertion of thin acupuncture needles into specific points on the body which are known as acupoints. These points are located along meridians or pathways through which energy (Qi) flows.
It’s believed that acupuncture is beneficial for stimulating the nervous system, triggering the release of endorphins that reduce the levels of pain and discomfort in the body.
How Long is an Acupuncture Session?
Typically an acupuncture session will take around 20 minutes up to an hour however, this can vary depending on the condition being treated. Some conditions may need more time to be treated, extending the length of the acupuncture session.
The average acupuncture session can vary but the needles usually remain inserted for around 15-20 minutes.
As your treatment progresses and intensifies, the length of your session can often vary. As you start to undergo more sessions your practitioner will monitor your progress closely and will tailor the sessions to your personal needs.
How Many Sessions do I Need?
The number of acupuncture sessions you need can vary depending on various factors. This can include the condition being treated, its severity, and how your body responds to acupuncture.
Acute Conditions
For acute conditions like a sprained ankle or recent onset of headaches, you may need a shorter treatment plan. Generally, 3 to 6 sessions are recommended for acupuncture and it is advised to attend these sessions closely together to address the issue as quickly as possible. Some individuals may experience significant relief after just one or two sessions, while others might require the full treatment.
Chronic Conditions
Chronic conditions, such as long-term pain, migraines, or stress-related disorders, often require a more extended treatment plan. It’s not uncommon for treatment to last 10 to 15 sessions over several weeks or months.
In these cases, the sessions might start more frequently, attending once or twice a week, and gradually reduce the intensity as symptoms improve.
Factors that Influence the Duration of Acupuncture Treatment
The duration of acupuncture treatment can be influenced by various factors. Some of these factors can range from mild to severe and have a significant impact on the duration of your acupuncture session. Here are some of the common factors:
Severity and Type of Condition
The severity and type of the condition being treated significantly impact the duration and frequency of acupuncture sessions. Acute injuries or conditions may recover quickly, while chronic or complex issues might require a longer-term approach.
Personal Response to Treatment
Everyone’s body reacts differently to acupuncture. Some patients experience immediate relief, while others notice more gradual improvements. Factors such as age, overall health, and lifestyle can influence how quickly you respond to treatment.
Treatment Goals
The goals of acupuncture treatment also play a role in determining the duration of an acupuncture session. For example, treating a specific injury may require fewer sessions than addressing systemic issues like anxiety or digestive problems, which might involve a more comprehensive treatment approach.
What Should I Do After my First Session?
After your initial acupuncture session, it is important to take care of your body and relax, in order to maximise the benefits from the treatment. Here are some key tips that you can use to enhance your recovery process.
- Rest and Relax
- Stay Hydrated
- Eat Healthy
- Monitor Your Body’s Reaction
- Avoid Stress On The Body
- Stay Warm and Comfortable
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures
The use of these tips post-acupuncture treatment is really important and will enhance your recovery process and improve your overall well-being.
What to Wear to an Acupuncture Session
When preparing for your acupuncture session, your comfort is key. It is advised that you wear loose clothing to your session that allows access to different parts of your body for the insertion of thin needles.
It is important to keep in mind that during the session you will be required to sit or lay down for a long period of time. Therefore, wearing clothing that is comfortable for you is crucial to enhance your overall experience and fully benefit from the treatment.
Try and avoid wearing tight clothing to your acupuncture session as this can make it difficult for your practitioner to reach the specific acupoints and may also cause you discomfort when lying down.
Acupuncture Therapy at Concordia Clinic
A typical acupuncture session will take around 60 minutes however, the insertion of needles in the body will last for approximately 15-20 minutes. Even though acupuncture therapy can be considered to be time-consuming, acupuncture is a highly effective treatment option for a wide range of conditions.
Whether you’re dealing with a short-term issue or a chronic condition, acupuncture offers a holistic approach that can lead to long-lasting benefits.
Here at Concordia Clinic, we take great pride in your overall health and well-being as we aim to provide a wide range of treatments to address your condition. If you are looking to receive acupuncture treatment from an experienced acupuncture practitioner, look no further than the team at Concordia Clinic.
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