Question 1

What happens at my first visit?

Accepted Answer

Your first appointment is longer so Annie can take a full health history, ask about your main concerns, and look at tongue and pulse in the Chinese medicine tradition. You'll then receive acupuncture on the day, and herbal medicine may be suggested if it fits your case.

Generally patients will remove there clothing except for underwear and be covered with a towel, but if you would prefer to remain clothed you can wear loose fitting clothes you can roll up at the stomach, sleeves and ankles.

Question 2

How many treatments will I need and how often?

Accepted Answer

It depends on how long you've had the issue, how your body responds and how quickly you want results. Some people notice a shift after one or two visits; longer-standing concerns often need a short course of weekly or fortnightly sessions, then spacing out as things settle. There is also no problem coming every day or two for a pressing issue if it's suitable for your body. This is quite common in China.

Annie will give you a clear plan after your first consult.

Question 3

Does acupuncture hurt?

Accepted Answer

Most people feel a light pinch or prick when a needle is first placed, it should not be a strong or lasting pain. Needles are very fine (much thinner than an injection needle) and many patients find the session deeply relaxing.

If you want, Annie can adjust the needles during the session to stimulate a stronger response from the body, and there may be some discomfort during that process. Tell Annie if anything feels too strong and she can re-adjust straight away. The more relaxed you can be during the session, the more you will benefit.

Question 4

How deep will the acupuncture needles go and is it safe?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, this depends on the area where the needle is going. Sensitive areas around the face and fingers will only go a few millimetres deep using an ultra-fine needle. In other areas (like the muscular structures in the legs and arms), it is safe to go much deeper, even a few centimetres, with no pain or risk.

The second factor is the condition being treated. Some conditions and body patterns may require a specific depth or needling.

Each point has a unique depth limit which all professionally trained acupuncturists carefully observe to avoid damaging tissues or impacting organs. Historically, there have been only a handful of cases worldwide of serious damage due to acupuncture or dry needling incorrectly around sensitive areas. The risk is extremely low with a fully trained, experienced and registered professional.

Sometimes when a needle is removed, there may be a few drops of blood released, which can be dabbed with a tissue or occasionally soreness in the area afterwards.

If you still have any safety concerns, Annie will be glad to answer all of your questions. You may also request distal acupuncture where only the limbs or scalp is needled. This has similar and sometimes better effects than whole body acupuncture.

Question 5

Can I claim with my private health fund?

Accepted Answer

We have a HICAPS machine in the clinic for on the spot private health claims for acupuncture.

Many Australian health funds cover acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine under extras. Cover varies by fund and policy, so it's best check with your insurer before your visit. Bring your membership card if you have one, and if you forget Annie can provide a receipt to claim later.

Question 6

What's the difference between a first visit and a follow-up?

Accepted Answer

The first visit includes a fuller assessment and treatment planning, and may run longer. Follow-ups focus on how you've progressed since last time and continue acupuncture (and herbs if you're using them). You can choose the visit type when you book online.

Question 7

How is traditional Chinese medicine different to modern western medicine?

Accepted Answer

Modern western medicine, with it's many diagnostic tools and interventions like surgeries, scans and vaccines takes the lead when in comes to acute and serious life threatening illnesses such as cancer, infection, traumatic injuries and preventing transmissible disease. That is why it's important to discuss all of your health issues with a general practitioner or specialist if needed.

Traditional Chinese medicine can support modern Western treatments or, in some cases, provide steadier long-term maintenance. For example, many patients have found that acupuncture may help with chemotherapy nausea and the distress associated with such aggressive treatments like radiation therapy. Traditional Chinese medicine can also provide options for digestive, sleep and hormonal issues other than repeated medications like antibiotics and hormones, which may have unintended side effects with long term use.

Question 8

Where is the clinic and is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Felicity Clinic is at 43 Hermitage Street, Keperra QLD 4054, in North Brisbane. You can park in the driveway or use free street parking. Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f8HhFD9NRSvtKpjB8 Apple Maps: https://maps.apple.com/place?place-id=I1AB3F93C619D6719&address=43+Hermitage+St%2C+Keperra+QLD+4054%2C+Australia&coordinate=-27.418376%2C152.941390&name=Felicity+Acupuncture+and+Herbal+Clinic&_provider=9902

Question 9

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Accepted Answer

Please give as much notice as you can, ideally at least 24 hours, so the time can be offered to someone else. You can use the link in your booking confirmation or contact the clinic directly to change your appointment.

Question 10

Is acupuncture safe in pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is commonly used in pregnancy when given by a trained practitioner who knows which points to avoid. Mention if you are pregnant or trying to conceive at booking and again at your visit so Annie can tailor treatment safely.

Question 11

Do I need a referral from my GP?

Accepted Answer

No referral is required to book. Annie works alongside your GP and other specialists when that makes sense, so bring any recent results, prescriptions or letters if you have them. Acupuncture can be supportive care or your main treatment, depending on your situation.

Question 12

Is acupuncture suitable for children or disabled people?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture and herbal medicine can be tailored for absolutely all kinds or people. For example, autistic children who might struggle to lay down and stay still can be treated with highly effective scalp acupuncture so they can move and even walk around during the session. There are no age restrictions for Chinese medicine, although very young infants may be treated with acupressure rather than needles.

Frequently asked questions