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1. Does acupuncture work the same for everybody?

   No. In fact, researchers aren't completely sure how or why it works. Your response may be different than that of another patient with similar symptoms.

2. Isn't acupuncture just a placebo?

   No. While researchers don't discount the placebo effect, evidence indicates that acupuncture is effective in treating certain conditions, particularly postoperative and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and the pain associated with dental surgery.

3. I know I want to try acupuncture. Why should I talk to my primary health care professional first?

   Pain may be a symptom of a serious condition. You should be screened by a health professional with formal training in Western allopathic medicine if the diagnosis is not clear or standard treatment options unknown.

4. Is acupuncture a replacement for conventional medicine?

   Sometimes. But generally, it is prudent to continue any current treatments prescribed for you. Acupuncture often serves as complementary therapy, working in conjunction with other treatments for the same condition. In fact, in some cases, using acupuncture and certain conventional painkillers together leads to complete pain relief. And remember: If you are seeing several health care professionals, keep them all apprised of your various treatments and therapies.

5. Are the acupuncture needles like those used to give shots or draw blood?

   No. Acupuncture needles are hair-thin, smooth and solid hypodermic needles are thicker, hollow and have cutting edges.

6. When is acupuncture an appropriate treatment?

   If you have localized pain, nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy or pregnancy, or are facing surgery and worried about anesthesia-induced nausea, talk to your physician about acupuncture. You may also talk with an acupuncturist to get information on acupuncture. Acupuncture may offer pain relief or improve other symptoms even if you have had little success with conventional medicine.