FAQ
How does acupuncture treatment work?
This is difficult to say, as there are different schools of acupuncture, each of which have their
own style of working. I practise different styles, depending on the symptoms. Normally, I
place between 3 and 15 needles.
Is acupuncture painful?
Acupuncture needles are very fine: 25 to 50 mm thinner and more flexible than injection
needles. I use needles which are even thinner than the standard acupuncture needles. Most
people find the insertion of the needles painless. Some people feel a minor discomfort when I
place a needle, and this can result in slight cramp, a vibration, or a feeling of heat. Once the
needle is placed, you usually do not feel it at all, unless I put an electro-current clip onto it.
Even then, for most people it is a relaxing sensation and some even fall asleep during the
treatment.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is very safe. I always use very sterile and individually packed disposable
needles, which I dispose of safely. This way there is no risk of contamination. The needles are
inserted with knowledge of and respect for the underlying tissue. I do my best to avoid any
damage. Occasionally, there might be a bruise at the puncture point or a small drop of blood.
Some people might experience a little dizziness as the Qi-energy starts to flow.
Do I need to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
No. The efficacy of Chinese Medicine does not rely on a placebo effect. Acupuncture is used
with success in babies and animals. They cannot understand the treatment or believe in it.
Can children also be treated with acupuncture?
Children of all ages are treated with acupuncture. They respond very well and quickly to the
sessions, especially when we also prescribe herbal preparations. These reinforce the
acupuncture treatments and guarantee further cure between the treatments.
Will my sessions be reimbursed by my health insurance?
As I am a recognized member of a professional association, some mutuelles, health insurance
companies and hospital insurance schemes refund some of the cost. You should check this
with your own health insurance company or mutuelle.
What should I do when I cannot come to an appointment?
For every appointment made, I will plan enough time. I will do my best always to be
punctual. Out of respect for my time and that of others, I ask you to be in time for
appointments.
Appointments can be modified or cancelled up to 24 hours in advance by telephone. If you do
not show up or are late, the session will be charged.
How long does a session take?
For every session, I plan 1h. Your first appointment involves a thorough initial
conversation that usually takes about 1.5 hours (especially when you have a complex or
extensive history). Often, I also combine acupuncture with other techniques, such as moxa or
cupping.
How many sessions are needed?
This can vary a lot from person to person, but most treatments require multiple sessions. The
number of treatments depends on the nature of the symptom and the recovery capacity.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic approach. The treatment plan will be fully
customised to the patient.
Generally speaking, the more acute the symptom, the faster a result is achieved. This could
happen after one or two sessions. With most chronic symptoms my ground rule is that I want
to see clear progress after four or five sessions.
After our initial conversation, I will usually estimate what the expected timeframe will be.
And of course, we will evaluate together every session depending on your response to the
treatments.
Can acupuncture be combined with other forms of therapy and/or medication?
Of course. Acupuncture perfectly complements others medical treatments, osteopathy,
physiotherapy, etc.
You can keep taking the medication prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor alone gives
advice on this and I will never interfere. I like to know what medication you are taking, so
please give a list at your first appointment and keep me informed about later updates.
At your request, I can contact your doctor for advice or consultation.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Yes, acupuncture quickly treats any discomfort that can occur during pregnancy, such as
morning sickness, back pain, radiating pain down the back of the legs, carpal tunnel
syndrome, etc.
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to induce deliveries and to help things run smoothly.
Please tell me if you know you are pregnant.