Expert: Dr. Man Tran, Ph.D, D.C., L.Ac. - 2/21/2007

Question
Dear Dr. Tran,

I am a great fan of acupuncture - I could easily become addicted to it! Though I've never had a full course of treatment, the few sessions I had in the past on 2 - 3 different occasions of "illness", gave me noticeable relief and some explanation, whereas Western medicine did not.

I have suffered from anxiety and stomach/liver problems for some years now.  Bloating and irregular bm's (from loose to constipation) are the latest manifestation, with tired eyes and burning ears, and floating phantoms of pressure/pain around the solar plexus(?), neck/throat and/or chest.  Variety!

My new acupuncturist recommended 12 sessions of acupuncture/pressure with herbs. My 1st visit I had acupunture and got Jiawei Xiaoyao Wan and Gui Pi Wan - he said for stress, saying my spleen and liver were not functioning well. -- I felt improvement after 1 week for my eyes and ears.  ;-))

My 2nd weekly visit I had punc and pres, and was recommended Shun Qi and Bu Pi Yi Chang for gas/bloating.

After my 1st visit I was exhausted, but relaxed. After the 2nd, all the points pierced(?) are sore and red, unusual for me, my stomach hurts a bit; I have some discomfort around the solar plexus and feel not so nice.  ?  Psychosomatic?

My main question is how much treatment is enough?  I know it takes time, but will I 'get well enough' after say 6 sessions, and perhaps without the herbs for bloating?  Money is an issue, and this chain practice seems more intent on earning - though they gave me a "Chinese New Year Special"... ?  Will I be doing myself "harm" if I don't follow through?

Thank you for all your time and help!

Answer
Dear Melanie,

I am so glad that you have found acupuncture to be a great experience!  

The number of visits required varies depending on the nature of the illness as well as the constitution of the patient.  It can range from 1 treatment to 30 treatments.  It seems you have various conditions going on in your body.  The best way to know is if I can examine you to know more of your condition and your body constitution.  Since your acupuncturist has done so, he/she has a better understanding of your situation and prescribed such management according to the findings.  Sorry I couldn't give you a definite answer, however, improvement of your symptoms is a good sign of direction.