Acupuncture FAQ
Common questions about acupuncture treatment in Tilburg, answered in English.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a healthcare system that has been used for thousands of years. TCM looks at the person as a whole, taking into account lifestyle, stress, emotions, sleep and overall wellbeing.
Body and mind are closely connected. When this balance is disturbed, symptoms may arise. Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile, single-use needles placed at specific points on the body to support balance — by improving flow, releasing tension or supporting areas where energy is low.
Each treatment is based on an individual assessment, including a conversation and pulse and tongue observation. When helpful, lifestyle or nutritional advice may be added.
When can acupuncture help?
Acupuncture can be used for a wide range of complaints and generally has few to no side effects. It is often chosen as a complementary treatment alongside Western medical care, not as a replacement.
People commonly seek acupuncture for:
- Stress, burn-out and tension
- Sleep problems
- Headaches
- Allergies (such as hay fever)
- Joint pain or limited mobility
- Recurrent or chronic colds
- Complaints related to menstruation, pregnancy and (peri)menopause
The World Health Organization (WHO) has compiled a list of conditions for which acupuncture may be beneficial (indicatielijst acupunctuur).
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No. You can make an appointment without a referral. If you are receiving medical care elsewhere, this will be taken into account.
Can acupuncture be combined with Western medical treatment?
Yes. Acupuncture is often used alongside Western medicine. It can be supportive, but it does not replace medical care.
What happens during the first appointment?
The first appointment starts with an in-depth conversation about your symptoms, medical history and general wellbeing. Pulse and tongue assessment are part of the intake. I will place a number of very small needles scattered throughout your body. After that, you are allowed to relax or sleep for 20–30 minutes.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people experience little to no pain. The needles are very thin, and I often use a guide tube, which makes the insertion even less noticeable. If a needle feels uncomfortable, I remove it and reinsert it.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies per person and complaint. For many people, 3 to 8 sessions are sufficient. Treatments usually start once a week and are spaced further apart as symptoms improve.
How long does a treatment take?
First consultation: approx. 90 minutes
Follow-up sessions: approx. 45 minutes
Is acupuncture covered by health insurance in the Netherlands?
Some supplementary insurance packages reimburse acupuncture. Coverage depends on your policy, so please check with your insurer.
Do you work with expats and English-speaking clients?
Yes. Treatments are available in English. I regularly work with expats and understand the challenges of navigating healthcare in a new country.
What makes my practice different?
With over 30 years of experience in healthcare and my current work in a hospital setting, I am used to working with complex conditions and in collaboration with other healthcare professionals. This careful, medically informed approach is central to my acupuncture practice.