Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture is based on a theory that electromagnetic energy runs through our body along particular pathways (called channels or meridians – often likened to water through a system of pipes). Each meridian connects to an organ, or group of organs and thus these meridians govern particular bodily functions. Achieving the proper harmonious flow of Qi creates health and wellness.

This Qi (energy) surfaces in precisely located points on the body (called the acupuncture points) which are needled using extremely thin, sterile, single-use needles. These acupuncture points have been found to have a higher concentration of nerves supplying it.
Research has found that when these points are needled, it sends messages to the brain (via stimulation of the nervous system) to emit a variety of biochemical signals that influence other cells of the body.

Depending on what points are stimulated, a variety of responses can result including an anti-inflammatory response, the release of certain painkillers (such as endorphin, enkephalin, endomorphin and dymorphin), or the release of neurotransmitters that create a sense of relaxation and wellbeing. It is these various biochemical cascades of reactions and sensations which, over time, have been shown to reduce severity and symptoms of many different conditions.

Furthermore, Acupuncture can have the following effects on the human body. 

• Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system – activation of different neural pathways in the brain causing release of different neurotransmitters and neuro-hormones. Activation of the hypothalamus and pituitary glands causes the release of different hormones which carry out various actions in the body.
• Acupuncture modulates the immune system – can modulate levels of cytokines, interferon, natural killer cells, T-cell lymphocytes and interleukons. It can also cause decreases pro-inflammatory mediators including TNF and IL-1Beta.
• Acupuncture releases natural pain killers – such as opioids, endorphins and enkephalins. Acupuncture also modulates levels of norepinephrine and serotonin.
• Acupuncture promotes blood flow – everything the body needs to heal is in the blood, including oxygen, nutrients, immune substances, hormones & analgesics (painkillers).
• Acupuncture stimulates healing mechanisms – it can create ‘micro traumas’ which stimulate the body’s natural healing process through nervous, immune and endocrine system activation.
• Acupuncture relaxes muscles – which then releases pressure on joint structures and nerves, which promotes blood flow.
• Acupuncture reduces stress – Acupuncture can reduce the amount of stress hormones circulating in the body, particularly cortisol.

Yes. Acupuncture treatments provided by Gold Coast Mobile Acupuncture are covered with private health insurance, which you can claim through the receipts. Just check your level of cover.

Acupuncture needles are incredibly thin and flexible (about the same thickness as a piece of hair). They are a fraction of the diameter of hypodermic needles that doctors and nurses use – 3 to 4 times finer.

Most needles are pain free, but there may be the odd one that feels like a mosquito bite and lasts about the same amount of time. The most common reaction by new patients is “is that it”, because the pain level is low to zero.