FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Alternative Medicine
Finding treatments that are good for your body
Questions about natural treatment?
There is 1 hour street parking directly in front of the clinic on St. Vincent Street. There is also 2 hour parking on the surrounding streets. For public transport, Port Dock interchange is a short walk away.
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that can be readily rolled up past your elbows and knees is recommended. This allows your practitioner easy access for treatment. While you will generally remain clothed, there might be instances, such as with cupping or if treatment of your thighs or back is required, where some clothing needs to be removed. Please know that your privacy is always respected, and we will use draping to ensure your comfort and modesty throughout your session
Fill out forms: New clients will receive an intake form via email, please complete thoroughly and honestly before your appointment.
Eat a light meal or snack: Aim to eat about 1-2 hours prior to your session to avoid feeling lightheaded or discomfort lying down
Avoid fragrances: Perfumes, colognes or scented body sprays should be avoided due to those with sensitivities to strong smells.
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs: nothing for 12 hours before your appointment as they can interfere with the effectiveness of treatment.
Does alternative medicine, like acupuncture, hurt? The needles used are very thin, and most often people don’t even feel them being inserted. You might experience brief, mild sensations like a pinch, dull ache, tingling, or warmth, which are usually not painful. Some people are more sensitive than others and if you experience discomfort, the treatment can be modified to suit you.
Cash and card are both accepted
Yes, East of West is recognised as a trusted provider from all major private health insurers. Check with you specific provider for level of rebate.
While the clinic does not have HICAPS, an invoice will be given for an online claim.
Can alternative medicine help straight away? This is very individual and varies. While occasional issues resolve in one session, most conditions need multiple acupuncture treatments. Longer or more severe problems typically require more sessions, with visits being more frequent initially and decreasing as you improve. Following lifestyle and dietary advice can lead to faster, longer-lasting results.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese therapy that involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body to balance energy flow, or Qi; it’s aim is to relieve pain, reduce stress, and support overall wellbeing. Other forms of alternative medicine include herbal remedies, cupping and infrared saunas that many people find helpful.