The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For chronic or long-standing conditions, few courses treatments for some months may be recommended. A course normally consists of 15-20mins of treatment per day ranging from 7-10 days depending on the nature and intensity of the disease. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health.

Usually no. As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination patterns, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.

People experience acupuncture needling differently. Most patients feel only minimal pain as the needles are inserted; some feel no pain at all. Once the needles are in place, there is no pain felt. Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid and are made from stainless steel. The point is smooth (not hollow with cutting edges like a hypodermic needle) and insertion through the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling. The risk of bruising and skin irritation is very less than when using a hollow needle.

At Guru Ram, we use only high quality sterilized disposable needles and there is no risk of infection from the treatments.

Yes. In the past 4500 years, more people have been successfully treated with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Today acupuncture is practiced widely in Asia, America, the Soviet Union, and in Europe. It is now being used more and more in India by patients and physicians. Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time other techniques are being used, such as conventional Western medicine, osteopathic or chiropractic adjustments, and homoeopathic or naturopathic prescriptions. It is important that our Acupuncturist know everything that you are doing, so that he can help you get the most benefit from all your treatments.

No. Acupuncture is used successfully on cats, dogs, horses and other animals. These animal patients do not understand or believe in the process that helps them get better. A positive attitude toward wellness may reinforce the effects of the treatment received, just as a negative attitude may hinder the effects of acupuncture or any other treatment. A neutral attitude ("I don't know if I really believe in this.") will not block the treatment results.

Yes. To enhance the value of a treatment, the following guidelines are important:

• Do not eat an unusually large meal immediately before or after your treatment.

• Do not over-exercise, engage in sexual activity, or consume alcoholic beverages within 6 hours before or after the treatment.

• Plan your activities so that after the treatment you can get some rest, or at least not have to be working at top performance. This is especially important for the first few visits.

Continue to take any prescription medicines as directed by your regular doctor. Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) especially in the week prior to treatment will seriously interfere with the effectiveness of acupuncture treatments.

Remember to keep good mental or written notes of what your response is to the treatment. This is important for our Doctor to know so that the follow-up treatments can be designed to best help you and your problem.