Providing pain relief and Traditional Chinese Medicine

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a treatment modality that is part of a traditional medicine system first developed in Asia and practiced for more than 2,000 years. An acupuncturist facilitates healing by inserting very thin needles at points along the body's "meridians" to access and manipulate the body's Qi (pronounced "chee") or life force energy and address the body’s imbalances and return it to its natural healthy state.

What are meridians?

Meridians are pathways of energy coursing through the entire body. In recent decades they have been found to correspond to many modern medicine pathways for blood vessels and nerves. According to traditional Asian medicine theory, blockage, deficiency, or excess of Qi in one or more meridians can be a primary cause of pain and disease.

How long is a course of treatment?

Chronic conditions are often difficult to treat, and it is wise to keep in perspective that the longer you have been ill or injured, the longer it will take to experience recovery. The number of treatments required varies depending on the individual. Practitioners generally recommend an initial course of six consecutive treatments (one time per week for six weeks or two times a week for three weeks) before evaluating the results to determine what time frame and type of treatment might still be needed. Other treatment modalities that can be used by the practitioner include herbal medicine, dietary therapy, exercise such as Qi Gong or Tai Chi, lifestyle management, moxibustion, or Tui Na massage.

Does acupuncture hurt? What will I feel during the treatment and how long does it last?

Needles used in modern acupuncture are very fine, almost hair-like in flexibility, and cause a limited sensation upon insertion. Sometimes patients feel a tiny prick or slight pressure when the needle is inserted, but most do not classify it as "painful." It is normal to feel a heavy, dull sensation once the needles are inserted, but it should never be uncomfortable or painful. The needles usually stay inserted from 20-40 minutes depending on the condition. A treatment session lasts from 45 minutes to an hour. Initial consultations often take 1½ to 2 hours.

Are the needles sterile and do you reuse them?

All acupuncture needles are sterilized and in sealed packaging. Some practitioners use a guide tube to insert the needles, while others insert using a free-hand technique. Both methods, when done by a properly trained practitioner, are safe. Acupuncture needles are designed to be single-use. They are NEVER reused. They are considered a bio-hazard and are properly and safely discarded after use.

Should I keep my appointment if I'm sick?

Yes. Acupuncture and herbal treatments are highly effective for treating acute conditions such as colds and flu, stomach viruses, and headaches. Patients often report immediate improvement in symptoms after acupuncture treatment and/or herbal therapy.

What is Moxibustion?

Moxibustion is an ancient therapy that consists of burning measured amounts of Chinese mugwort, or “moxa” (Artemisia argyii or Artemisia vulgaris), indirectly on an acupuncture point or indirectly along a meridian. Moxa, as it is sometimes called is very useful for many conditions involving cold conditions or, used to strengthen the needleing prescription therapy. Some common conditions include arthritis, menstrual cramps, stomach disorders and many others. Please note that we do not use direct moxibustion.

What conditions are treated by Acupuncture?

Some of the conditions treated by acupuncture:

Anxiety, Fatigue, Renal Colic, Arthritis, Fibrosis, Rheumatism, Asthma, Insomnia, Sinusitis, Back Pain, Kidney and Bladder Disorders, Tennis Elbow, Blood Pressure, Lumbago, Bronchitis, Menopausal Problems, Tension, Bunion Pain, Menstrual Disorders, Constipation, Migraine Headaches, Vomiting, Cramps, Muscular Sprains, Weight Control, Cystitis, Neck and Shoulder Tension, Weight Problems, Diarrhea, Nervous Disorders, Ulcers, Eczema, Edema, and Vertigo.

Insurance

A growing number of insurance companies offer reimbursement for acupuncture treatments. Before your appointment, consult your insurance provider to determine the terms of coverage in your policy.