Acupuncture: What's the Point? Time to Bust Some Myths and Ease Your Jitters
Apr 28, 2021
Florida - Southwest
Email US
Click to Email Us
You dont have to be scared of acupuncture.
Needles poking through your skin may not sound like a good time, but millions have tried it and found relaxation and relief. This old Chinese medicine approach which has become more mainstream in recent years helps patients relieve debilitating and life-altering symptoms such as pain, stress, depression, anxiety, and nausea.
And did you know: The American Cancer Society supports the use of acupuncture for cancer patients. Indeed, it can give you some relief without the side effects of medication.
So as more patients look for complementary treatments, lets point you in the right direction:
What is acupuncture?
The body has natural energy that often gets blocked or impaired. Acupuncture inserting needles at certain points in the body to relieve symptoms ignites that energy and releases endorphins. Licensed experts use extremely fine, sterilized, and disposable needles to ensure safety and to give you the most possible benefits.
What happens at my appointment?
Acupuncturists do their best to make you feel comfortable. Remember, this will be just like any other health appointment:
Patients fill out paperwork about their health history, the reason for your visit, and other relevant questions.
An expert will talk to you, observe your condition, take your pulse and other vitals to come up with the correct treatment plan.
We will put a specific plan of action into place so that we can treat your symptoms AND the root cause of your trouble.
When you are feeling relaxed and comfortable, we gently insert needles into precise points in your body. Patients usually lie still for about 20 minutes to allow the body to correct itself.
We take the needles out, slowly, and the treatment is over. The patient will generally feel more relaxed and at ease.
Does it hurt?
Acupuncture does not hurt. The needle creates a micro tear, sending a signal to the brain, where chemical messengers release and naturally improve your health. Some patients may feel a slight tingle, and many are surprised by how relaxed they feel.
Are the needles reused?
No. Acupuncture needles are either individually wrapped or sealed in a sterile pack. The FDA regulates these needles, which are discarded after use.
How does it all work?
Ah, the magic question! And there are plenty of theories. First, though, lets recognize that the body knows how to heal itself if provoked in the right way. There is an innate intelligence in all of us that aims toward righting the body.
Lets use pain as an example. Something causes your pain. Acupuncturists look to balance that system to stop the pain. The placement of the needle and the metal in the needle itself can be thought of as the medicine. The practitioner wisely chooses the correct needle placement, just like the medical doctor chooses the correct medication. The needle sends a signal through a neural pathway to stimulate oxygen, nutrients, blood, and chemical messengers to improve your cellular, tissue, organ, and bone health.
More about needles: How many do you use?
The number of needles varies based on your condition, but typically we use somewhere between eight and 16 each visit. And remember: Acupuncture needles are NOT the same as needles used to poke you and draw blood. These are much finer and thinner.
Do I stay dressed during a session?
Of course. We advise you to wear loose-fitting clothing, however, so we can reach most areas.
Are acupuncturists trained?
In Florida, all graduates must complete four state board exams, 870 hours of hands-on clinic, and, typically, four years of schooling. Please remember that not anyone can just start inserting needles into your body. We are trained experts, committed to complete, compassionate, and quality healing.
Are there different types or styles?
Not all acupuncturists study the same style. Typically, most schools teach Traditional Chinese Medicine, but there are many different forms: Five-element theory, esoteric, Japanese, Korean, Tan style, Master Tang Theory, and others. What style will work best for you? We can help you decide.
Just what exactly will acupuncture help treat?
Were glad you asked. Acupuncture is great for:
Pain
Sciatica
Pre/Post Surgery
Migraines
Inflammation
Osteoarthritis
Autoimmune Diseases
PMS
Hot Flashes
Gastrointestinal Issues
Acid Reflux
Sinusitis
Insomnia
Anxiety/Depression
Fatigue
How do I make an appointment?
Acupuncture at Lee Health does not need a referral. Click the link at the beginning of the article for more information.
Other Articles You May Like
Our hearts are dedicated to yours
At Lee Health, you have everything you need to take care of your heart health. Our expert cardiovascular team is the largest and most experienced in Southwest Florida. No matter where you are in your health care journey, our experts are alongside you every step of the way. Lee Health Heart Institute includes primary and specialty care, nationally ranked hospitals, Shipley Cardiothoracic Center, cardiac rehabilitation and moreall in a safe and comforting environment. Were ready to help you stay active, engaged and prepared to enjoy the important things in life.The Lee Health Heart Institute is nationally recognized for excellence in cardiovascular care. HealthPark Medical Center has been recognized as a PINC AI I Fortune 50 Top Cardiology Hospital in the country and 1 of only 6 hospitals recognized in Florida and the only hospital in Southwest Florida underscoring Lee Healths commitment to exceptional cardiovascular care and medical excellence in the region. The Lee Health Heart Institute ranks 9th in the nation and top 3 in Florida through its PINC designation. Our dedication to advancing heart health is evident through ongoing clinical trials, published research, and 11 abstracts presented at the American College of Cardiology Scientific Sessions. Heart Institute Locations Near YouThe Heart Institute incorporates cardiovascular services, cardiology, and cardiothoracic surgery. Locate Lee Health Heart Institute clinics near you for convenient locations including experienced cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and more. Dedicated cardiovascular health to patients located minutes from Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, Lehigh Acres, Estero, and Bonita Springs.Cardiothoracic Surgery - Heart Institute at Shipley Cardiothoracic Center9981 S HealthPark Dr, Suite 156 Fort Myers, FL 33908Phone number(239) 343-6341 Cardiology - Heart Institute at Bass Road16261 Bass Rd, Suite 300 Fort Myers, FL 33908Phone number(239) 343-6410Cardiology - Heart Institute at Cape Coral Hospital708 Del Prado Blvd, Suite 7 Cape Coral, FL 33990Phone number(239) 424-3660Cardiology - Heart Institute at Coconut Point23450 Via Coconut Point Estero, FL 34135Phone number(239) 468-0121Cardiology - Heart Institute at Medical Plaza One9800 S HealthPark Dr, Suite 320 Fort Myers, FL 33908Phone number(239) 343-6350Cardiology - Heart Institute at Metro Parkway13340 Metro Pkwy, Suite 200 Fort Myers, FL 33966Phone number(239) 343-0550Cardiology - Heart Institute at Sanctuary8960 Colonial Center Dr, Suite 302 Fort Myers, FL 33905Phone number(239) 343-9700
National Cancer Survivors Month
June is National Cancer Survivor Month, a time to celebrate, support, and raise awareness about cancer survivorship.There are more than 18 million cancer survivors in the U.S.Statistics from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) project that the number will grow to 26 million by 2040.More than 2 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer in 2025.The NCI projects that an estimated 618,120 people in the U.S. will die from the disease in 2025.Be a part of the NCA Difference and support our mission of improving the care of cancer patients through our no-cost second-opinion services. Your support helps improve patient outcomes and peace of mind!
Tips for Managing Sentimental Items During Senior Moves
Tips for Managing Sentimental Items During Senior MovesHelping Seniors Let Go with Grace, Love, and SupportMoving is never just about the boxes. For seniors, its often about leaving behind decades of memories, milestones, and meaningful items collected over a lifetime. Each photograph, teacup, and holiday ornament tells a story. And when its time to downsize, those items become more than stuffthey become emotional touchpoints.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand that moving a senior is more than a physical transition. Its a deeply personal and emotional journey. Families often find this part of the move to be the most challengingnavigating the emotions wrapped around keepsakes, gifts, and family treasures.Heres a loving and simple guide to help families and seniors navigate this sensitive part of the move with dignity, compassion, and peace of mind.Understanding the Emotional Value Behind Sentimental ItemsIts not about the object. Its about what it represents.One of the most difficult tasks seniors face when moving is choosing what to keep and what to let go of. The value of sentimental items isnt measured in dollarsits in the memories and emotions they hold.At A Call to Order, we always start with understanding. Listen to the stories. That vintage cookie jar might remind mom of her childrens laughter, or that faded armchair may have been dads favorite reading spot. Validating these emotions builds trust and makes the next step easier.Here are a few gentle strategies we use to help:1. Start Early, Start SmallGive your loved one plenty of time. Begin with items that carry less emotional weight, like extra kitchenware or linens. Building momentum with easy decisions can prepare the heart for tougher choices.2. Use the One Box RuleLimit sentimental keepsakes to one memory box or trunk. This makes it easier to prioritize what truly matters. Choosing with intention helps seniors feel more in control and less overwhelmed.3. Digitize What You CanScanning letters, photos, or childrens artwork is a wonderful way to preserve memories without the physical bulk. Its a beautiful project that can even become a family bonding activity.4. Create a Legacy, Not a Storage UnitEncourage seniors to share their cherished items with children, grandchildren, or close friends. Write a note with each gift explaining why its special. Turning sentimental items into heirlooms ensures theyll be treasured, not just stored.Supporting Seniors with Love and StructureWith the right support, letting go can feel like giving, not losing.Helping a senior downsize means stepping into their emotional world. Our work is rooted in compassion, patience, and professionalismand thats what sets senior move managers apart. Families no longer want fast; they want gentle and thoughtful transitions.Heres how to create a supportive environment for decision-making:1. Set Clear Goals, Not DeadlinesIts not just a move; its a life transition. Respect the time it takes to process memories. Set daily or weekly goals instead of strict timelines, and celebrate every milestonebig or small.2. Use a Sorting System That Feels EmpoweringWe often recommend a four-pile method: Keep, Donate, Gift, and Recycle. This gives seniors control over the destination of their belongings, which helps reduce anxiety and fosters a sense of purpose.3. Make Space for ReflectionMoving can stir up grief. Allow time for tears and stories. Encourage loved ones to journal, share memories, or even record video messages about the items theyre parting with.4. Ask for HelpSometimes, professional help makes all the difference. Our team at A Call to Order specializes in compassionate organizing and senior move management. Were not just organizerswere listeners, supporters, and gentle guides through lifes biggest transitions.In Closing: Its About Holding On to What Matters MostHelping a senior manage sentimental items during a move is about love. Its about honoring their past while helping them embrace a lighter, more peaceful future. At A Call to Order, we walk beside families every step of the waybecause we believe a move can be a moment of connection, not stress.Let us help you and your loved ones make space for what truly matterswith kindness, patience, and care. Ready to get started with a heart-centered move?Visit www.acalltoorderco.com or call us at 719-231-5425.Your story mattersand were here to help you tell it, one organized step at a time.FOLLOW USLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/acalltoorderco/Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/ACalltoOrderInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/acalltoorderco/
Local Services By This Author
Lee Health - Renal Care
Renal Care , Fort Myers, Florida,Lee Health is a leading healthcare provider in Southwest Florida, offering award-winning care and comprehensive services to meet the diverse needs of our community. Our mission is to provide quality service with personal attention, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care.At Lee Health, we understand that finding the right care can be overwhelming. That's why we offer a range of services, from in-person care to virtual visits, urgent care, and emergency care, to ensure that you can access the care you need, when you need it. Our team of experienced physicians and specialists are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to each and every patient.In addition to our clinical services, Lee Health is committed to providing resources and support to our community. Through our learning center, blog, and webinars, we strive to educate and empower individuals to take control of their health and wellness.As part of our commitment to excellence, Lee Health is currently conducting an evaluation of our business structure to ensure that we are meeting the highest standards of quality and efficiency. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our services, find a doctor, and discover how Lee Health can help you and your family live healthier lives.
Lee Health - Pain Management
Pain Management , Fort Myers, Florida,Lee Health is a leading healthcare provider in Southwest Florida, offering award-winning care and comprehensive services to meet the diverse needs of our community. Our mission is to provide quality service with personal attention, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care.At Lee Health, we understand that finding the right care can be overwhelming. That's why we offer a range of services, from in-person care to virtual visits, urgent care, and emergency care, to ensure that you can access the care you need, when you need it. Our team of experienced physicians and specialists are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to each and every patient.In addition to our clinical services, Lee Health is committed to providing resources and support to our community. Through our learning center, blog, and webinars, we strive to educate and empower individuals to take control of their health and wellness.As part of our commitment to excellence, Lee Health is currently conducting an evaluation of our business structure to ensure that we are meeting the highest standards of quality and efficiency. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our services, find a doctor, and discover how Lee Health can help you and your family live healthier lives.
Lee Health - Dementia Counseling
Dementia Counseling , Fort Myers, Florida,Lee Health is a leading healthcare provider in Southwest Florida, offering award-winning care and comprehensive services to meet the diverse needs of our community. Our mission is to provide quality service with personal attention, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care.At Lee Health, we understand that finding the right care can be overwhelming. That's why we offer a range of services, from in-person care to virtual visits, urgent care, and emergency care, to ensure that you can access the care you need, when you need it. Our team of experienced physicians and specialists are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to each and every patient.In addition to our clinical services, Lee Health is committed to providing resources and support to our community. Through our learning center, blog, and webinars, we strive to educate and empower individuals to take control of their health and wellness.As part of our commitment to excellence, Lee Health is currently conducting an evaluation of our business structure to ensure that we are meeting the highest standards of quality and efficiency. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our services, find a doctor, and discover how Lee Health can help you and your family live healthier lives.