From a Western medical perspective, acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body, which activates sensory nerves and sends signals to the brain and spinal cord. This triggers the release of natural chemicals such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, which help relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve mood. Acupuncture also promotes better blood flow, enhances tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and regulates the autonomic nervous system—helping to balance functions such as digestion, sleep, and hormone levels. Functional MRI studies also demonstrate acupuncture’s effect on brain regions involved in pain processing and emotional regulation. 

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, acupuncture works by restoring balance within the body through regulating Qi (vital energy) and balancing Yin and Yang. Illness is viewed as a disruption in harmony within these systems. Acupuncture aims to resolve the root cause by balancing the whole body rather than treating isolated symptoms, supporting the body’s innate ability to heal and self-regulate.

Not usually. Most people find acupuncture to be a gentle and deeply relaxing experience.

The needles we use are extremely fine — much thinner than those used for injections, and even finer than a strand of hair. You may feel a mild sensation such as tingling, warmth, or a dull ache, which is a normal and positive response during the healing process.

For children, we often use minimum needles (such as Dr. Kapica's single-needle treatment methods) or non-needle techniques such as acupressure or Tuina massage. Children tend to be very responsive to treatment, so gentle stimulation is often enough to produce excellent results.
In fact, most patients are surprised by how comfortable treatments feel and frequently fall asleep during sessions. Your practitioner can adjust techniques, needle depth, and stimulation to ensure your comfort at all times. If you are sensitive or nervous, this can be discussed beforehand so treatment is gentle and tailored to your needs.

To get the most out of your first acupuncture treatment, it is recommended to eat a light meal beforehand rather than arriving hungry or overly full. An empty stomach may make you feel lightheaded or faint. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing or be prepared to change if needed. Avoid strenuous exercise immediately before your appointment and allow some time afterward to rest if possible. Stay well hydrated and avoid alcohol on the day of treatment.

Bring a list of any medications or supplements you are taking, along with relevant medical reports if available. 

Arrive 15 minutes early to allow yourself time to settle in and relax before your treatment or fill out a New Patient Intake Form if it has not been done online or by email the day before. We also recommend visiting the bathroom prior to your appointment for your comfort. A toilet is available at the clinic.

Most importantly, arrive with an open mind—acupuncture works best when the body is relaxed and receptive.

Acupuncture can support a wide range of health concerns by addressing both symptoms and underlying imbalances. It is commonly used for all types of pain, including muscle, joint, nerve pain, headaches, and migraines. Many people seek acupuncture for stress-related conditions such as anxiety, emotional imbalance, irritability, and sleep disturbances. It is also widely used to support hormonal health, including menstrual pain and irregularities, fertility and pregnancy support, hot flashes, and menopause. Digestive concerns such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and reflux may respond well to treatment, as can fatigue and low energy. Acupuncture is frequently used for skin conditions, respiratory issues, eye discomfort, and immune support. In addition, it may assist with neurological conditions, post-stroke recovery, and rehabilitation, as well as focus, memory, ADHD, and autism support—particularly in children.

Initial acupuncture appointments are typically longer, often lasting 60 to 75 minutes, to allow time for a thorough assessment and treatment. Follow-up acupuncture session length is usually up to 45 minutes. The needle retention time is generally 20–30 minutes, during which you rest comfortably.

Treatment length may vary depending on your condition, treatment approach, and whether additional therapies such as cupping, moxibustion, or manual techniques are included. 

Yes, acupuncture is considered a very safe therapy when performed by a qualified and registered practitioner. Large-scale research and systematic reviews published in medical journals have shown that serious adverse events are extremely rare. In Australia, acupuncturists are required to follow strict infection control standards, including the use of single-use, sterile needles.

Common side effects, when they occur, are generally mild and short-lived, such as temporary soreness, slight bruising, or light-headedness. These effects typically resolve quickly without intervention.

Acupuncture has been safely used worldwide for thousands of years and continues to be integrated into modern healthcare settings, including hospitals and private clinics. Your practitioner will always assess your medical history, medications, and individual health needs to ensure treatment is appropriate and tailored specifically for you.

Your first acupuncture appointment is more comprehensive than follow-up visits. It begins with a detailed consultation covering your main concerns, medical history, lifestyle, sleep, digestion, stress levels, and overall wellbeing. From a TCM perspective, your practitioner may also assess your pulse and tongue to gain insight into internal balance. A personalised treatment plan is then developed.

The acupuncture session itself typically involves lying comfortably while fine needles are placed at specific points. You will rest quietly for 20–30 minutes. Many patients feel deeply relaxed during and after treatment. Your practitioner may also provide lifestyle, dietary, or self-care recommendations to support your progress between sessions.

The number of treatments varies depending on your conditions and how your body responds. Some people feel noticeable relief after just a few sessions, while others with more chronic or complex health concerns may require a longer treatment plan for lasting results.

Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s natural healing response and guiding it toward greater balance, which takes time and consistency—especially for long-standing conditions. Early progress may fluctuate, but with regular sessions, most people experience steady and lasting improvement.

During your initial consultation, we’ll create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs. Your commitment to the recommended frequency and duration plays a key role in achieving the best outcomes.

Chinese medicine is a well-established and evidence-informed system of care, developed and refined over more than 2000 years—it is real medicine, not a quick fix or magic trick.

Yes. Acupuncture is widely used for preventative care and long-term health maintenance, even when no specific symptoms are present. From a Chinese medicine perspective, maintaining balance before illness develops is central to good health and wellbeing. Regular treatments can support stress regulation, immune resilience, digestion, sleep quality, hormonal balance, and emotional wellbeing.

Many patients choose acupuncture as part of their self-care routine to maintain vitality, prevent burnout, and support healthy ageing. Preventative acupuncture is typically spaced further apart (such as once a month or two) and tailored to seasonal changes and individual constitution.

Pingpoint Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine operates from two convenient locations in Western Australia.

Our primary clinic is based in Subiaco, providing professional acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services to patients across Perth’s inner western and central suburbs, including West Perth, Shenton Park, Jolimont, Daglish, Wembley, Nedlands, Leederville, Floreat, Mount Hawthorn, and Perth CBD. In addition, Dr Ping Kapica also consults at Hills Natural Health Centre in Glen Forrest, serving patients in the Perth Hills and eastern suburbs, including Glen Forrest, Mundaring, Darlington, Parkerville, Mahogany Creek, Greenmount, Helena Valley, and Kalamunda.

Both locations are easily accessible and offer a calm, professional environment focused on personalised acupuncture care, pain management, women and men’s health, fertility/pregnancy support, stress relief, and long-term wellbeing.