Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most people who have had acupuncture would describe it as virtually painless or far less painful than plucking out a hair. The sensations that follow range from nothing at all, to mild tingling, to slight numbness/achiness, to electrical pulsations in areas distant from the site of insertion. All these sensations usually subside once the needles are removed.

The needles used for acupuncture are much smaller that the standard hypodermic needle, do not draw blood and are solid, not hollow.  They are tiny, just a little larger than a cat's whisker.

Acupuncture needles are inserted between the layers or cells of your skin.  They do not puncture the skin or draw blood.

How deep do the needles go?
Depth of insertion varies on the placement of the needle and the treatment type.  For instance, Vanesza might use a needling technique that is different in fleshier areas.  Typically, needles are inserted at depths ranging from 1/8" to 1 1/2".

What is treatment like?
Where the acupuncture needle has been inserted, you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or dull ache. Some people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle - called Qi sensation.  All of these sensations are good and a sign that the treatment is working.  After treatment you may feel energized or feel a deep sense of relaxation and well-being. It is not unusual for patients to sleep during treatment.  Usually patients leave in less discomfort and are more functional than when they walked in.

How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments will vary from person to person.  Some peple experience immediate relief; others may take months or longer to achieve results.  Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors: your constitution, the severity/duration of the problem, and the quality and quantity of your Qi.  Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones.  Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes.

How should I prepare?

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access.  You may need to disrobe for your treatment, but you will receive a gown for modesty.
• Don't eat large meals just before or after your treatment.
• Refrain from overexertion, working out, drugs or alcohol for up to 6 hours after the visit.
• Between visits, note physical changes in your body and be prepared to discuss them with Vanesza during your next visit.

What can I do to enhance my acupuncture treatments?
An ideal patient is one who will commit to the treatments as proposed and is open to exploring the benefits of Eastern medicine in conjunction with western disciplines. We try to utilize the practices of both to promote a healthy lifestyle.

Is acupuncture safe for children?
Yes - often  children respond more quickly than adults.  When needed, Acupressure is often used for children with an aversion to needles.

What type of schooling is required to become licensed in Acupuncture?
Three to four years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at a nationally certified school.  National and State exams are administered and passed before becoming licensed in Oregon.

To bring you a well-rounded whole body experience, Vanesza has also received a degree from the University of Nevada - Reno for Clinical Dietetics and a Masters Degree in Chinese Medicine from the Santa Barbara College of Oriental Medicine.

Why be treated by Vanesza?
Vanesza understands people besides their physical issues; the psychological and emotional issues as well.  She listens to both the traditional and nontraditional symptoms being experienced by a patient and acts in accordance with those symptoms to create a well-structured treatment plan.