Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Most people who have had acupuncture would describe it as virtually painless or far less painful than plucking out a hair. The sensations that follow range from nothing at all, to mild tingling, to slight numbness/achiness, to electrical pulsations in areas distant from the site of insertion. All these sensations usually subside once the needles are removed. The needles used for acupuncture are much smaller that the standard hypodermic needle, do not draw blood and are solid, not hollow.

What is treatment like?

Most patients would say, "relaxing." Usually patients leave in less discomfort and are more functional than when they walked in. Sometimes the effects are too subtle to perceive, especially in the beginning of treatment. Yet after 5 to 10 treatments the improvements become more and more apparent.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

If performed by a qualified, conscientious practitioner, yes. Licensed Acupuncturists know the human anatomy well, and insert needles in a safe fashion. The instruments used to penetrate the skin are either pre-sterilized and disposable after a single use, or disinfected and sterilized in an autoclave, as surgical and dental instruments are, after each use.

The practitioner is well aware of the concern over infectious diseases, and takes every measure to insure cleanliness as all health care professional do.

Bleeding rarely occurs, unless done so on purpose in specific situations. Even then the amount is minimal and in no way dangerous.

Acupuncture Side Effects

When performed by a properly trained and licensed practitioner, acupuncture is safe and effective, free from adverse or addictive side effects. Quite often, a sense of relaxation and well-being occurs during and after treatments. While undergoing therapy for one ailment, other problems may resolve concurrently. This is a common side benefit that again demonstrates the value of balancing the quality and quantity of "vital energy" within the entire person.

Read the National Center for Complementary & Alternative Medicine's Introduction to Acupuncture by clicking on the link herein.

MICHAEL PAGANI , DOM (Doctor of Oriental Medicine)

Dr. Pagani has practiced in the South Tampa area for the past 24 years. His hands on approach to Alternative Medicine and Wellness have allowed him to excel in assisting athletes in sports performance and injury rehabilitation. Preventative medicine for issues such as chronic fatigue, digestion disorders, cold/flu and headaches has been treated successfully for years by Dr. Pagani.  Mind/body integration and stress reduction also is a specialty of Dr. Mike for individuals with demanding careers and busy households. Part of his complementary medicine program includes yoga classes and Thai massage.

The combination of Eastern and Western healing techniques, such as acupuncture, homeopathic and herbal injection therapy, Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) and therapeutic massage has led to a successful practice in treating asthma, back/neck pain, sinus allergies, infertility, and peri/pre-menopause issues. His philosophy of local medicine for local patients contributes to the feeling of well being and healing that is the heart of this practice.