Frequently Asked Questions
Acupuncture is a natural, holistic therapy rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that uses fine, sterile needles inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and restore balance. At Balance Acupuncture Brisbane in Carina, acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions — not just pain — including stress, hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, fatigue, and general wellness support.
Acupuncture works by inserting fine, sterile, single-use needles into specific points along the body’s energy pathways — known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as meridians — to clear blockages and restore the natural flow of Qi (energy).
From a Western medicine perspective, acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, promotes circulation, and triggers the release of natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory compounds. How quickly you notice results depends on your individual condition and whether it is acute or chronic.
Please let your practitioner know immediately if you feel any discomfort during your session so adjustments can be made straight away.
A standard acupuncture session at Balance Acupuncture Brisbane in Carina typically lasts between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on the type of appointment.
An initial consultation for preconception care or fertility support is 90 minutes, allowing time for a thorough health assessment and first treatment. All other initial consultations and general appointments are 60 minutes.
Follow-up appointments run for 45 to 60 minutes. Telehealth and virtual consultations are shorter, typically 30 to 45 minutes.
For exact pricing matched to each appointment length, visit our Prices & Contact page.
Preparing for your first acupuncture appointment is simple. Eat a light meal or snack within the hour before your session — arriving on an empty stomach can increase the chance of feeling lightheaded during treatment.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be easily rolled up to the knees and elbows, as many common acupuncture points are located on the arms and legs.
Avoid alcohol on the day of your appointment.
If you exercise, schedule it before your session rather than after, so the balancing effects of the treatment are not disrupted.
Arrive a few minutes early for your first visit, so you have time to settle and complete any intake paperwork without feeling rushed.
Yes. Acupuncture is safe to receive alongside most conventional Western medical treatments and is designed to complement, not replace, your existing healthcare.
At Balance Acupuncture Brisbane, we take an integrative approach and actively encourage open communication between all your health practitioners.
Most GPs and medical specialists are supportive of acupuncture as a complementary therapy, particularly for pain management, stress, hormonal health, and fertility support.
Always inform both your doctor and your acupuncturist of all treatments, medications, and supplements you are currently taking, so your care can be coordinated safely and effectively.
Acupuncture is a very safe treatment when performed by a registered practitioner, but some mild side effects can occur.
The most common is feeling deeply relaxed or slightly sleepy after a session — this is normal and welcomed. A small number of patients experience temporary drowsiness and should avoid driving if this occurs.
Minor bruising or light bleeding at needle sites can happen, and cupping therapy commonly causes temporary bruising that may last up to a week.
Less commonly, symptoms may temporarily worsen before improving.
Fainting is rare but possible, particularly if you have not eaten.
Burns are a risk with heat therapies such as moxibustion — always tell your practitioner if heat feels uncomfortable.
Infection risk is eliminated through the exclusive use of sterile, single-use disposable needles.
All Chinese herbal medicines prescribed at the clinic are TGA-approved.
Inform your practitioner of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as some herbal formulas may interact or be unsuitable during pregnancy.
Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a qualified, registered practitioner.
At Balance Acupuncture Brisbane, Louise Bennett is fully registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) and a member of AACMA, ensuring treatment meets the highest professional and safety standards.
Only sterile, single-use disposable needles are used — infection risk is negligible.
The most common responses to treatment are deep relaxation, mild tiredness, or occasional light bruising at needle sites, all of which resolve quickly.
That said, acupuncture requires extra care or may need to be modified in certain situations.
Please inform your practitioner before treatment if any of the following apply to you:
- You are pregnant or actively trying to conceive;
- you have a pacemaker or any electrical implant;
- you take blood-thinning medication or have a bleeding disorder;
- You have a history of fainting or seizures; or
- You have damaged heart valves or a heightened risk of infection.
None of these conditions automatically prevent you from receiving acupuncture — they simply allow your practitioner to adapt your treatment plan to keep you safe.
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Simply Call Balance Acupuncture Brisbane 0405 181 825