Frequently Asked Questions
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How Acupuncture Restores Balance
Acupuncture works with the body’s subtle energy system to restore balance at the deepest level. By harmonising the six elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, and Ether (Space)—and the extraordinary meridians, treatment helps the body reconnect to its natural state of health.
When the mind becomes stressed or distracted, emotions can become unsettled. This creates tension in the body, which may disturb the organs and lead to physical or emotional symptoms.
Acupuncture gently clears these blockages. It releases the mental and emotional strain that binds up the body, allowing symptoms to dissolve naturally. Many people experience not only relief of pain or discomfort, but also a renewed sense of calm, clarity, and presence.
Through this reconnection, acupuncture doesn’t just treat symptoms—it helps you return to balance, wellbeing, and a deeper sense of yourself.
- Acupuncture needles can have a certain sensation after they are inserted, but few would call it painful. Over many years l have noticed that people who are very tense, through emotional or mental stress patterns, can perceive the needles as painful due to their inability to relax. Generally breathing deeply a few times before needle insertion can reduce this perception.
- By the time all the needles are inserted during a treatment, you generally do not feel any of them and are consumed with a sense of calm and relaxation
- HICAPS for private health fund rebates is available automatically at our clinic
- Acupuncture is covered with over 43 private insurance health funds
- The rebated amount will depend on your private health fund and the type of cover you have
Dry Needling – Mackay
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Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture & Wellbeing
At Mackay Acupuncture & Natural Medicine, we offer a gentle, precise form of treatment called Neoclassical Acupuncture.
Many people have questions about safety, what to expect, and how acupuncture may support their overall wellbeing.
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your GP or relevant
health professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
General acupuncture questions
What is Neoclassical Acupuncture?
Neoclassical Acupuncture is a gentle form of acupuncture that typically uses one carefully selected point.
It focuses on supporting balance within the meridian system. Treatments are personalised and adapted to each individual.
It is used as a supportive therapy and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.
Does acupuncture hurt?
People often report feeling little to no discomfort. The needles are very fine, and the experience is usually calm and relaxing.
Sensations vary from person to person.
Why do you only use one needle?
Different acupuncture approaches use different numbers of needles. Neoclassical Acupuncture uses a targeted single–point method
to support balance within the system. Individual responses vary.
How quickly will I notice changes?
Some people feel different after treatment; others may notice shifts over several sessions. Every person’s situation is unique.
Acupuncture is used as supportive care and does not replace appropriate medical management.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Please wear comfortable clothing that can be rolled up to your elbows or knees. You remain fully dressed during treatment.
Can I return to work or drive after acupuncture?
Most people can resume normal activities immediately. If you feel very relaxed or tired afterwards, it can be helpful to allow
yourself some quiet time.
What should I avoid after treatment?
It may be helpful to avoid vigorous exercise, alcohol and very hot baths or saunas for a few hours after treatment.
Light activity, water and rest are generally appropriate.
Is acupuncture safe?
When performed by a qualified practitioner using sterile, single–use needles, acupuncture is generally considered low risk.
Please let us know about any medications, implants, pregnancy or health conditions so we can tailor your care appropriately.
Do you accept private health funds?
Many Australian private health insurers offer rebates for acupuncture delivered by an appropriately qualified practitioner.
Please check your own policy to confirm your level of cover.
Do you accept WorkCover and NDIS?
Yes. WorkCover services can be provided once approved, and we see self–managed and plan–managed NDIS participants where acupuncture
is appropriate as part of their overall support.
Pain, injury & physical support
Can acupuncture help with pain?
Some people use acupuncture to help manage pain such as back discomfort, neck tension, joint stiffness or muscular tightness.
Responses vary between individuals. Pain should always be appropriately assessed by a medical practitioner.
Can acupuncture support people with migraines or headaches?
Some individuals choose acupuncture as part of their approach to managing headaches or migraines. Acupuncture may support relaxation
and general wellbeing. Migraines should be assessed by a GP or specialist, especially if symptoms change or worsen.
Can acupuncture help after surgery?
Acupuncture may be used alongside post–surgical rehabilitation to support comfort and general wellbeing. It does not replace
the advice of your surgeon, GP or physiotherapist, and all post–operative concerns should be discussed with them.
Can acupuncture help nerve pain or neuropathy?
Some people seek acupuncture for nerve–related symptoms. Because nerve pain can have serious underlying causes, it is important
to have these symptoms assessed and monitored by a GP or relevant specialist.
Can acupuncture help athletes recover?
Some athletes include acupuncture in their overall recovery routine. It may be used alongside stretching, rehabilitation and
other healthcare to support general comfort and wellbeing.
Can acupuncture help chronic muscle tightness?
Some individuals find acupuncture helpful for managing recurring muscular tension. Results vary, and ongoing pain or stiffness
should be medically assessed.
Can acupuncture be used if I cannot lie flat?
Yes. Treatments can be performed while you are seated, semi–reclined or lying on your side, depending on what is most comfortable.
Pregnancy, fertility & women’s health
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Acupuncture is commonly used during pregnancy and can be adapted to each stage. Care is taken with point selection and positioning.
It is important to inform your practitioner that you are pregnant and to continue regular care with your midwife, GP or obstetrician.
Can acupuncture support morning sickness, fatigue or general discomfort?
Some pregnant individuals use acupuncture as supportive care for general wellbeing. Acupuncture does not replace medical assessment
or management of pregnancy–related conditions.
Can acupuncture help prepare for labour?
Some people choose acupuncture in the later weeks of pregnancy as part of their preparation for labour. It may support relaxation
and overall comfort. Labour planning should always be discussed with your maternity care team.
Is acupuncture safe for third–trimester swelling?
Acupuncture is sometimes used to support comfort in late pregnancy. Any swelling in pregnancy should be assessed by your midwife,
GP or obstetrician to rule out medical concerns.
Can acupuncture help hormonal symptoms or menstrual discomfort?
Some people report feeling more comfortable using acupuncture around their menstrual cycle or during hormonal changes.
This is supportive care and should not replace medical advice, especially if pain is severe or changing.
Stress, sleep & emotional wellbeing
Can acupuncture help with stress or feeling “wired”?
Many individuals use acupuncture to support relaxation and a sense of calm. It may help some people feel more settled.
It does not replace counselling, psychology or medical care when these are needed.
Can acupuncture help with panic or sudden anxiety?
Some people report feeling calmer after acupuncture. Anyone experiencing panic attacks, severe anxiety or changes in mood
should seek assessment and support from a GP, psychologist or other appropriately qualified mental health professional.
Can acupuncture help with sleep difficulties?
Some individuals use acupuncture as part of a broader strategy to support sleep quality, often alongside lifestyle and medical support.
Persistent insomnia should be discussed with a GP or sleep specialist.
Is acupuncture suitable for people with trauma histories?
Acupuncture can be delivered in a gentle, low–stimulation way that some people with trauma histories find acceptable.
Trauma itself should also be addressed through appropriate psychological or trauma–informed care.
Digestion, immune & internal health
Can acupuncture help IBS, bloating or reflux?
Some people use acupuncture to support digestive comfort. Because digestive symptoms can indicate underlying medical conditions,
they should always be assessed by a GP, particularly if they are new, severe or persistent.
Can acupuncture help sinus or allergy symptoms?
Some individuals find acupuncture helpful as supportive care for sinus discomfort. Severe, ongoing or changing symptoms should
be reviewed by a GP or specialist.
Can acupuncture support chronic fatigue or burnout?
Some people report a sense of improved wellbeing following acupuncture. Chronic fatigue and burnout are complex and require
medical assessment and ongoing management.
Can acupuncture help restless legs or muscle twitching?
Some people seek acupuncture for muscle–related discomfort. These symptoms can be associated with medical conditions and therefore
should be discussed with a GP.
Complex or chronic conditions
Is acupuncture safe if I am taking blood thinners?
Acupuncture can often be performed safely with modifications when someone is taking blood–thinning medication. Minor bruising
may occur. It is important to inform your practitioner about all medications and to consult your GP if you have concerns.
Do you see people with long COVID symptoms?
Some individuals use acupuncture as supportive care while recovering from viral illness, including long COVID. Long COVID itself
should be assessed and managed by a GP or specialist.
Can acupuncture help dizziness or vertigo?
Some people try acupuncture for dizziness, but dizziness and vertigo can indicate significant medical issues. These symptoms
must be assessed by a GP or specialist.
Is acupuncture safe with pacemakers or implants?
Manual acupuncture (without electrical stimulation) can generally be used safely in people with pacemakers or implants.
Always inform your practitioner of any implanted devices and follow your cardiologist or surgeon’s guidance.
Do you treat autoimmune conditions?
Acupuncture may be used as supportive care for general wellbeing in people with autoimmune conditions. It does not treat or
cure autoimmune diseases. Ongoing medical management by your GP or specialist is essential.
Can acupuncture be used alongside chemotherapy?
Some people use acupuncture alongside cancer treatment as supportive care for general wellbeing. It should only be done in
consultation with your oncology team to ensure it is appropriate for your situation.
FIFO, shift work & travel
Do you treat FIFO workers?
Yes. Some FIFO workers use acupuncture as part of their strategy to support general wellbeing, particularly when dealing with
shift patterns, travel and physical work. It does not replace medical or occupational health care.
Can acupuncture help with sleep during night shift?
Some individuals find acupuncture helpful for relaxation, which may support their sleep routine. Ongoing sleep problems should
be assessed by a GP.
Can acupuncture help with jet lag?
Some travellers use acupuncture to support general balance and wellbeing after long flights. Responses vary.
Children & family
Do you treat children?
Yes. Acupuncture techniques can be adapted for younger people, using very gentle or non–needle approaches where appropriate.
Persistent symptoms, behavioural changes or developmental concerns should always be assessed by a GP or paediatrician.
Is acupuncture safe for babies or toddlers?
For very young children, treatment may involve extremely gentle or non–needle methods. Any ongoing symptoms or illness should
be discussed with a GP or paediatrician.
When other approaches haven’t helped
What if acupuncture hasn’t helped me elsewhere?
Different acupuncture systems use different approaches. Some people choose to try Neoclassical Acupuncture because it works in
a different way. Individual responses vary. Acupuncture is used as supportive care and should be combined with appropriate
medical management where needed.
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