Most people are surprised by how gentle acupuncture feels. The needles are extremely fine — much thinner than those used for injections. You may feel a dull ache, tingling, or warmth, but many patients don’t feel the needles at all. Most describe the experience as deeply relaxing.

Yes, many private health insurance policies include acupuncture in their Extras cover.

As coverage levels can vary, I advise checking with your provider. You can use the details below to confirm your rebates:

• Item 103: Acupuncture Initial Consultation

• Item 203: Acupuncture Follow-Up Consultation

No — acupuncture and dry needling are not the same, even though both use fine needles.

Acupuncture is a key therapy within Chinese Medicine — a complete system of healthcare developed over thousands of years. It aims to restore balance and harmony within the body by supporting the natural flow of energy (Qi) through the body’s meridian system — an interconnected network that links the organs, muscles, and tissues.

Dry needling, by contrast, is a modern musculoskeletal technique often used by physiotherapists or manual therapists. It focuses mainly on releasing tight muscle bands or trigger points to relieve local pain and tension, but it doesn’t draw on the holistic diagnostic or meridian-based framework of Chinese medicine.

Acupuncturists often work with these same trigger points — known in Chinese medicine as Ah-Shi points — while also using additional acupuncture points along meridians that connect to the affected area.

For example, when treating lower back pain, an acupuncturist might needle locally around the lumbar region to ease tension, while also using points on the hands, feet, or legs that correspond to meridians running through the lower back. This approach allows treatment to address both the local discomfort and the underlying energetic patterns contributing to the pain.

Yes. Acupuncture is often integrated alongside Western medicine. It does not interfere with medications or procedures. Patients find that acupuncture can help reduce side effects of treatments like chemotherapy, IVF, or pain medications.

Yes — acupuncture is considered safe and beneficial during pregnancy when performed by a qualified practitioner. In fact, many women choose acupuncture throughout their pregnancy to help support their changing bodies and overall wellbeing.

Needles are placed on specific points located on the arms, legs, back, torso, head, and ears. Sensitive areas are always respected and never needled.

To ensure you feel completely comfortable, please discuss any areas you would prefer to avoid. Roxy can easily work with points on another part of your body to support your treatment goals.

The number of acupuncture needles used will depend on your specific condition and how your body is responding that day. Roxy generally uses around 5 to 18 fine needles in each session, chosen with care to create a balanced and effective treatment.

Usually, the needles stay in for around 20 to 30 minutes. Roxy will let you know the planned duration at the start of your treatment and will ensure you are comfortable and relaxed for the entire time.

Loose, comfortable clothing is best, so that areas like your arms, legs, and abdomen can be easily accessed. If needed, towels will be provided for draping.

This varies depending on the condition and how long you’ve had it. Some people feel improvements after just one or two sessions, while others may need a series of weekly treatments. Chronic issues usually require longer treatment than acute ones.

Roxy will work with you to establish a clear treatment plan, including what to expect and a projected timeline tailored to your specific needs.

Absolutely! Many people use acupuncture as preventive care — to support energy, mood, sleep, digestion, and overall wellbeing, even when they’re not “sick.”