When acupuncture is administered by a skilled Registered Acupuncturist, it is definitely a safe medical procedure with minimal potential side effects. Occasionally slight bleeding or bruising may occur, as with any needle penetration of skin, and this typically resolves quickly and does not cause discomfort in most cases.

Sterile, single use only needles are used at Cowichan Valley Acupuncture, and patient safety is our number one priority.

The majority of people who receive Acupuncture treatments experience a positive therapeutic response including pain reduction or improvement with an internal medical condition being treated.

Chronic conditions typically require more than a single treatment for significant improvement to occur.

If a patient has received several treatments and it is evident that there is minimal to no improvement of condition, an alternative form of therapy will be recommended. While this is rare, it is important to remember that not every medical procedure will work for everyone, 100% of the time.

Typically most patients experience little to no discomfort or pain when tiny Acupuncture needles are gently inserted into the skin and muscle. Occasionally, a slight sharp sensation may be observed by the patient upon insertion of the needle, and this quickly dissipates in most cases. If any lingering discomfort continues, the needle is withdrawn and typically the discomfort ceases.

It is recommended to minimize bodily movement throughout an Acupuncture treatment to avoid discomfort in the area where the needles are inserted. When muscles surrounding an inserted needle are activated, an uncomfortable sensation may be observed by the patient. In the majority of cases, when the movement stops, the discomfort also ceases.