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FAQ | Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist

Answers to common questions about treatment at the Buderim clinic, Sunshine Coast.

What services does Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, offer in Buderim?

Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, offers Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and Therapeutic Massage at his clinic at 9 Thomsen Terrace, Buderim, on the Sunshine Coast.
He is AHPRA-registered with over 30 years of clinical practice.
Treatments are often combined in one session, depending on what you come in for. 

Who is Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist?

Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, is AHPRA-registered and based in Buderim.
He holds a Master of Applied Science (Chinese Herbal Medicine) from RMIT University, trained further in Guangzhou, China and Portland, USA, and is a member of the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA).
He has practised for over 30 years in Australia, South Africa, USA and Brazil, including in sports medicine settings.

What happens at my first appointment?

Your first appointment with Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, starts with a detailed consultation about your health history and what brought you in, followed by treatment.
Depending on your needs, treatment may combine Therapeutic Massage and Acupuncture. If herbal medicine is suggested, Tim first reviews any medications and supplements you take. You'll also leave with practical advice on home care, movement and diet.

Is Acupuncture painful?

Most people find Acupuncture far gentler than they expect. The needles are very fine, about the width of a human hair (commonly 0.25 mm). You may feel nothing or a brief prick as the needle goes in, then a sensation of heaviness, tingling, warmth or dull ache around the point. Many people relax deeply during treatment, and some fall asleep.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments varies from person to person and depends on your concern, how long you've had it and your general health. Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, discusses a treatment plan with you at your first appointment and reviews it as you go.

What is the difference between Acupuncture and dry needling?

Acupuncture and dry needling use the same type of needle but differ in training and approach.
Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, is AHPRA-registered and has completed at least a four-year university degree in Chinese medicine, including hundreds of hours of supervised clinical training, and chooses points using Chinese medicine diagnosis.
Dry needling is a technique used by other health professionals, usually focused on trigger points in muscle.

Is Chinese herbal medicine safe to take with my medications?

Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, checks every medication and supplement you take before recommending any herbal formula, because some herbs can interact with medications. He holds a Master of Applied Science in Chinese Herbal Medicine.
Let your GP know you're taking herbal medicine too, and tell Tim about any changes to your medications.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Bring any recent medical test results, blood tests, scans or X-rays related to your concern, plus a list of your current medications and supplements. Wear loose, comfortable clothing so treatment areas are easy to reach.

Can I claim Acupuncture on my private health insurance?

You may be able to claim a rebate for Acupuncture with Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, depending on your private health insurance policy and level of extras cover. Tim is AHPRA-registered and an AACMA member, which most health funds require before they pay a rebate.
Rebates vary between funds and policies, so check with your health fund before your appointment to confirm what you can claim.

Is Acupuncture safe, and are there side effects?

Acupuncture carried out by a registered practitioner using sterile, single-use needles has a low risk of serious side effects.
As with all treatments, some people may experience reactions, most commonly minor bruising or soreness where a needle was placed, or feeling tired or light-headed afterwards.
Tell Tim before treatment if you're pregnant, take blood-thinning medication, have a bleeding disorder or have a pacemaker.

How can I check that an Acupuncturist is qualified?

In Australia, anyone using the title Acupuncturist or Chinese medicine practitioner must be registered with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia through AHPRA. You can check any practitioner's registration on the public register at ahpra.gov.au.
Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, is AHPRA-registered and a member of the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA).

What form does Chinese herbal medicine come in?

Chinese herbal medicine may be taken internally as teas, capsules or pills, or applied externally as creams, balms and soaks.
Tim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, tailors each formula to the individual after reviewing your health and any medications you take. 

How do I book an appointment?

Book online through the Book Now button on timdean.com.au, or textTim Dean, Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturist, on 0476 060 829. The clinic is at 9 Thomsen Terrace, Buderim QLD 4556.

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