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Acupuncture/Acupuncture and discomfort

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Expert: - 2/1/2008


Question
Hi Heather,
I went for my first acupuncture treatment a couple days ago.  The acupuncturist put needles I think in both ankles and at least one calf and hip area etc.  Probably about 5-10 minutes into treatment my calf started with painful throbbing.  I assumed that maybe the needle was hitting something or who knows but said something to the acupunturist and she said she did not have a needle in that leg and this was good because it meant energy was flowing.  The pain was very uncomfortable and my leg is a little achy today.  Is this normal or should I be concerned?

I really don't want to experience that again!

Thank you so much.
ML

Answer
Hi Mary Lou,
I can understand your concern that sensation can be alarming.  It sounds like you had a major blockage of qi (Chee or energy).  The treatment released this blockage and you had the throbbing sensation.  This does happen and is a good thing.  It may not happen again because hopefully, the blocked qi was released. The longest I have heard of phantom sensations lasting is about 2-3 days.  It sounds like you really needed your treatment.  If I were you I would try again.  

Warm Regards,
Heather Vandeburg LAc MSOM

Acupuncture

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Heather Vandeburg L.Ac M.S.O.M. dipl.Ac

Expertise

I can answer any questions about Acupuncture, Chinese Herbals, Tuina (Chinese massage, Cupping, and Gua Sha. I can answer questions about Qi, Meridians, and Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory. I can answer how these different modalities can benefit different conditions.

Experience

I have a Traditional Chinese Medicine Practice in DeKalb IL. I have been practicing TCM since 2002. I have given many lectures and classes on the subject of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture, Women’s Health, Nutrition and Acupuncture Facial Rejuvenation. This Includes speaking at an International Conference for the United Leukodystrophy Foundation.

Organizations
AAOM, NCCAOM, CCAOM, ILAAOM, APA

Publications
For Women Today, ILAAOM publications, State of Dentistry,

Education/Credentials
Master degree in Oriental Medicine, Bachelor degree in Nutrition, Bachelor degree in Biological Sciences. I am lisensed and board certified in Acupuncture. I did an advanced internship at Guang Zhou University in Guang Zhou China.

Awards and Honors
I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Midwest College of Oriental Medicine

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