Those living in Hong Kong have access to a wide selection of doctors and treatment styles. Just like the city itself, healthcare in Hong Kong is a unique combination of east and west. One of the most common styles of medicine in Hong Kong is
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with acupuncture being a popular and useful therapeutic modality. Our friends from Pacific Prime Hong Kong are here to tell you everything you need to know about acupuncture in Hong Kong.
What is Acupuncture?
A key component of Chinese medicine, acupuncture involves the use of thin needles, which are inserted into specific points or locations on the body based on the patient’s ailments or health condition. The Mayo Clinic describes it as a technique for balancing the flow of qi or chi, also known as energy or life force, believed to move through meridians, or pathways, in your body. Inserting needles into precise points along the meridians is believed to rebalance your energy flow.
The Most Common Reasons To Get Acupuncture
In Hong Kong, acupuncture is often used to alleviate symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Mouth and tooth pain
- Cramps
- Labor pain
- Back pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Sciatica
- Sprains
- Stress and insomnia
- Anxiety and depression
- Chronic fatigue
Many psychotherapists will also use acupuncture to help with pain relief or muscle recovery.
What Treatments Do Acupuncturists Perform?
A registered Chinese medicine practitioner in Hong Kong who is also an acupuncturist can conduct the following treatments:
- Acupressure
- Cupping
- Needling
- Counseling
- Gua sha
- Herbal therapy
- Moxibustion
When Should You Visit An Acupuncturist?
The number of treatments you will need depends on your condition, as well as how your body responds to acupuncture. Some people experience the benefits of acupuncture immediately, such as relaxation or pain relief, whilst others only feel it after several sessions. Even though acupuncture is typically used to treat specific ailments or conditions, regular visits are also advisable for preventative care.
How Much Does Acupuncture Cost in Hong Kong?
The cost of acupuncture in Hong Kong can vary significantly, subject to location and the selected service. A visit to an acupuncturist usually involves an initial health assessment, followed by a customized treatment program. An eligible HKID-holder can pay between HKD $135 to HKD $260 for a general acupuncturist and specialist, respectively, whereas a non-eligible person can pay up to HKD $1,200 per attendance. It’s important to note that long waiting times are common in the public sector.
Will My Insurance Cover Acupuncture in Hong Kong?
If your policy covers Chinese medicine or complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) fees, then you could be reimbursed for acupuncture treatment. However, the practitioner might have to be registered with the Chinese Medicine Council of Hong Kong to be eligible. Be sure to check the costs with your clinic of choice and whether your insurance policy will cover it before receiving treatment to avoid hefty out-of-pocket expenses.