FAQ

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions:

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture Healer: According to Chinese medical theory, energy or Qi ("chee") runs through the body and along its surface in regular patterns called channels or meridians. These channels nourish and regulate the functions of the body. When the energy flows freely in these channels, health is maintained. When the energy is blocked or depleted, pain or illness results. Needling acupuncture points normalizes the flow of Qi to help correct internal imbalances in the body.

A more scientific explanation of acupuncture is that the stimulation of certain trigger points on the body by acupuncture needles affects the autonomic nervous system, the vascular and endocrine physiology, and the brain chemistry, as well as the body's production of endorphins.

Is acupuncture painful?

While most people express fear or anxiety of needles before their first treatment, they are surprised by the pleasantness of the acupuncture treatment. Unlike hypodermic needles used for injections, acupuncture needles are very fine - about the thickness of a human hair. There should be very little or no discomfort with needle insertion. For your safety, only sterile and disposable needles are used. There are sensations, not considered painful, that are associated with the therapeutic effects of acupuncture which may include euphoria, warmth, tingling, heaviness, distention, or numbness.

How many treatments do I need?

Since each person is unique, the number of treatments will vary. Among the determining factors are the nature, severity, and history of each person's condition, as well as the general health of the individual. Usually one or two treatments per week are necessary to begin with. Many conditions can be alleviated very rapidly with acupuncture and herbs. Chronic illnesses may require treatment for several weeks or longer. Acute problems generally respond much faster. As in any form of medical care, the patient's attitude, diet, determination, and lifestyle will affect the outcome and course of treatment.

Does medical insurance cover acupuncture treatment?

Some health insurance companies cover acupuncture treatment. You should contact your health insurance provider to verify acupuncture coverage. We would also be happy to verify coverage for you. Please call us to discuss the specifics of your situation.

What can I expect on the first visit?

During your first office visit, your practitioner may take a detailed medical history, discuss your symptoms, examine your pulse and tongue, then apply appropriate treatment according to the diagnosis derived from the intake . After arriving at a specific diagnostic conclusion, one or several of the following techniques will be incorporated:

Needles: Thin, sterile, stainless steel needles are placed in specific acupuncture points. The needles are at least five times thinner than typical hypodermic needles and insertion is usually painless. You may feel a dull ache or tingling sensation when the needle is stimulated. Acupuncture is generally a very relaxing experience.

Electric Stimulation: Very low level electrical current may be applied to the needle or to the skin. This is often used for muscle spasms and acupuncture analgesia, facial rejuvenation, neuropathy conditions and much more. It may also be used to enhance specific acupuncture point stimulation in general.

Moxibustion: Moxa is a Chinese herb (mugwort) which is rolled into sticks or cones and burned above the skin. This aromatic herb creates a sensation which is warming and pleasant which regulates and moves the qi.

Massage (Tuina): Massage and body work are often applied in coordination with needling to release muscle spasms.

Herbs: Herbology is one of the five branches of Oriental medicine and is often used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment. Herbal supplements may be recommended as a dietary supplement to build and strengthen the body.

Other Adjunctive Techniques: Cupping, Guasha or other may be discussed as part of the treatment strategy at time of consultation if deemed necessary.

Dietary and Lifestyle Advice: Available to all patients.

Qi Gong/Tai Chi: Chinese breathing/exercise/meditation therapies that are low impact and very beneficial to regulating, harmonizing and fostering qi and blood, supporting stress reduction, relaxing the mind and improving concentration.

Where are you going to place the needles?

The location of acupuncture points will vary from patient to patient and from treatment to treatment. Some of the most well-known acupuncture points, traditionally used to influence the function of the female reproductive organs, are located on the lower back, lower abdomen, and legs. The points on the lumbar, sacrum, and low abdominal regions are particularly important in consideration of female anatomy and the related nerve segmental innervations. The points on head, neck, upper back and arms are used in order to stimulate autonomic nervous system and further induce the relaxation response.

What else is important in addition to receiving acupuncture?

Good Quality Sleep-

Low Stress and Relaxation and emotional balance-

Proper diet-

Exercise-

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Can it harm the baby?

Acupuncture, like any form of medicine, has precautions and contraindications. If performed properly and by adequately trained practitioners acupuncture is an extremely safe procedure. There are virtually no potential complications or side effects, even in children and during pregnancy.

How can acupuncture help in pregnancy?

Acupuncture can alleviate many of the conditions experienced during pregnancy which are often considered "par for the course", and for which effective remedy is rarely offered. Common pregnancy-related conditions treated with acupuncture include nausea & vomiting, aches & pains (e.g. back, carpal tunnel, sciatica), headaches & migraines, fatigue, heartburn, and anxiety/stress.

Does it hurt and how often would I need treatment?

Depending on the severity, frequency of treatment may range from 1x/week to daily until the symptoms are resolved or at least manageable. As the needles are inserted, you should feel no to little sensation. Many patients are so comfortable with the needles that they fall asleep during the treatment.

I have heard that moxibustion can be used to turn breech babies. Is this true and how is it carried out?

Yes, this is true. Studies confirm the effectiveness of moxibustion (greater than 70% success rate) to turn breech babies, a technique used for centuries in China. Moxibustion involves burning a herb close to the skin at specific points known to stimulate the baby's movement. It is most successful when used from 32 to 34 weeks.