Frequently asked questions

Japanese acupuncture is a style of acupuncture that developed in Japan after the practice was brought from China around 1,400 years ago. It uses thinner, finer needles inserted through a guide tube, making it significantly gentler than Chinese acupuncture. Diagnosis relies on palpation, feeling the abdomen and reading the pulses, and treatment focuses on the underlying cause of symptoms rather than the symptoms alone.

The needles are thinner, typically 0.16mm to 0.20mm in Japanese practice, compared with 0.25mm or thicker in Chinese, and inserted through a small guide tube. The depth of insertion is shallower, and the style relies more heavily on physical examination (palpation) than the Chinese tradition. Many patients find the Japanese approach more comfortable, especially those new to acupuncture.

Most patients feel very little, sometimes a slight tap when the needle is inserted, occasionally a faint dull sensation as the point activates. The Japanese style uses some of the thinnest needles in clinical use, and the guide tube minimises any initial sting. If a particular point is uncomfortable, let Hideshi know during the session. He can adjust accordingly.

It depends on the condition and how long you've been living with it. For acute issues, (e.g. a recent injury, a sudden migraine), change is often noticeable within one to three sessions. For chronic conditions, expect six to twelve sessions across two to three months, with maintenance care for some patients. You and Hideshi will discuss a realistic plan at your first appointment.

Acupuncture performed by an AHPRA-registered practitioner is very safe. All needles are single-use, sterile and disposed of immediately after each session. Minor effects like slight bruising or temporary tiredness can happen but are uncommon. Acupuncture is regulated in Australia by the Chinese Medicine Board under AHPRA. Registration ensures the practitioner has met national standards for training, hygiene and ongoing professional education.

Moxibustion is the burning of mugwort (called moxa in Japanese) on or near specific acupoints to warm them. It can be applied directly on the skin as tiny grains, indirectly using a heated stick held above the skin or on top of an acupuncture needle to warm it gently. The heat helps move blood and ki (energy), and is particularly useful for cold conditions (in oriental medicine this refers to poor blood circulation and low energy), menstrual cramps and digestive issues.

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork using finger, palm and thumb pressure along the same meridian lines as acupuncture. Hideshi integrates shiatsu into many treatment sessions to release tension.

Your first session takes 60 minutes. Hideshi will spend the first part talking through your health history, current concerns, lifestyle and what you would like to achieve. He will then examine using Japanese diagnostic methods (pulse reading and abdominal palpation), discuss what he observes and proceed with a treatment that may include any combination of acupuncture, moxibustion and shiatsu. You will leave with a clear sense of what to expect from future sessions.

Acupuncture works best when the practitioner can access the full range of acupoints across your body. Most patients are treated in their underwear, with several towels keeping you covered throughout the session: only the specific area being needled is exposed at any time, and you remain covered between points. If you would prefer to stay more clothed, lightweight acupuncture garments are available on request. Just let Hideshi know when you book.

Try not to come in either very hungry or very full. Avoid drinking alcohol before treatment. If you have recent test results, scans or specialist letters or medications relevant to what you would like help with, please bring those or inform Hideshi of them.

The World Health Organisation recognises acupuncture as an effective treatment for over a hundred conditions. In clinic, Hideshi commonly treats back and neck pain, headaches and migraines, sciatica, fertility concerns, pregnancy-related discomfort, stress and anxiety, insomnia, hormonal imbalances, hay fever, sports injuries and digestive issues including IBS. If you are not sure whether acupuncture might help your situation, please call or text. Hideshi is happy to discuss before you book.

Yes, when performed by a trained practitioner. Acupuncture is commonly used throughout pregnancy to ease morning sickness, pelvic pain, lower back pain and to encourage breech babies to turn (typically at 34–36 weeks). Certain acupoints are avoided during pregnancy. Please let Hideshi know at the start of the session if you are pregnant or trying to conceive.

Acupuncture is widely used to support fertility, both on its own and alongside IVF or other assisted reproductive treatment. The aim is to support overall reproductive health, regulate cycles and reduce stress. Most fertility patients book a course of treatment across two or three menstrual cycles. Evidence varies by condition and circumstance, and Hideshi is happy to discuss what acupuncture can and cannot do for your specific situation.

Acupuncture has good evidence for chronic pain, particularly lower back pain, neck pain, headaches and osteoarthritis. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) includes acupuncture among the non-pharmacological options for chronic pain management. Results vary, but many patients experience meaningful reduction in pain intensity and frequency with a course of treatment.

Yes, most Australian private health funds with extras cover acupuncture by AHPRA-registered practitioners. After your session you will receive a stamped receipt with a provider claim number, which you submit to your fund via their app, website or in person to receive your rebate. The rebate amount depends on your individual policy. Please check your level of cover with your fund before your visit.

Appointments are required. Please text 0405 493 575 to book. Hideshi prefers text messages as he might be with a client. Include your name, what you would like help with and a few preferred times.

Text 0405 493 575 with your name, what you'd like help with and a few preferred times. You can also call, though text is the fastest way to reach him. The clinic is at 27 Poolwood Road, Kewarra Beach, open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 7pm.

24 hours' notice is required for cancellation or rescheduling. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur the full session fee.

Yes. There is parking directly in front of the clinic, plus additional street parking on Poolwood Road. The walk from the parking area to the front door is under ten metres.

The clinic entrance is step-free with no stairs. The pathway from the parking area to the front door is short, under ten metres, but is grass and gravel, so a wheelchair built for outdoor surfaces will manage it comfortably. If you are using a standard indoor wheelchair or have any concerns about access, please text Hideshi before your visit. He is happy to help work out the best way in.

Hideshi sees patients from across the northern beaches and Cairns. The most common suburbs are Palm Cove, Clifton Beach, Kewarra Beach, Trinity Beach, Yorkeys Knob, Smithfield, Edge Hill, Whitfield, Cairns city, Manunda, Mooroobool, Westcourt, Earlville and Bayview Heights. Patients also travel from insterstate and internationally. If your suburb is not listed and you are considering treatment, please text or call to discuss.

はい、日本語での対応も可能です。日本人の鍼灸師として、東京の衛生学園で学び、30年以上の経験があります。お気軽にショートメッセージか電話でご連絡ください。

Yes, Japanese-language consultations are available. As a Japanese acupuncturist trained at Eisei Gakuen in Tokyo with over thirty years of experience, please feel free to contact me by text or phone.