Frequently Asked Questions
How does Acupuncture work?
The Chinese recognized a vital force in the body known as Qi (pronounced "chee"), an energy that is the basis for all life. Qi flows along pathways in the body known as meridians and can become blocked or deficient as a result of the various physical and mental stresses of life. Through the insertion of fine needles in specific points, acupuncture balances your body and encourages the free flow of Qi. When there is free movement, the body can more readily heal itself. This results in reduced inflammation and pain, improved immunity and circulation, better general functioning of the body and an improved sense of well-being.
The Chinese recognized a vital force in the body known as Qi (pronounced "chee"), an energy that is the basis for all life. Qi flows along pathways in the body known as meridians and can become blocked or deficient as a result of the various physical and mental stresses of life. Through the insertion of fine needles in specific points, acupuncture balances your body and encourages the free flow of Qi. When there is free movement, the body can more readily heal itself. This results in reduced inflammation and pain, improved immunity and circulation, better general functioning of the body and an improved sense of well-being.
Is there any science behind acupuncture?
Recent research has shown the following clinical findings about the effectiveness of Acupuncture: -Acupuncture stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which reduce the feelings of stress and anxiety and leads to feelings of calmness and well-being.
-Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins (natural pain killers) and other opioides in the brain.
-Brain scans on people receiving acupuncture show significant electrical changes in the brain, especially in the areas that control pain and behavior.
-Acupuncture changes the pattern of blood flow through the body, thereby stimulating healing. White blood cells migrate to the area of needle insertion, thereby stimulating the body’s natural immune defenses.
Recent research has shown the following clinical findings about the effectiveness of Acupuncture: -Acupuncture stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which reduce the feelings of stress and anxiety and leads to feelings of calmness and well-being.
-Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins (natural pain killers) and other opioides in the brain.
-Brain scans on people receiving acupuncture show significant electrical changes in the brain, especially in the areas that control pain and behavior.
-Acupuncture changes the pattern of blood flow through the body, thereby stimulating healing. White blood cells migrate to the area of needle insertion, thereby stimulating the body’s natural immune defenses.
What conditions can Acupuncture treat?
The World Health Organization found acupuncture to be helpful in reducing symptoms of over 50 different conditions. While many patients originally come to acupuncture for pain, most are surprised and encouraged to know that Acupuncture treats their whole body. If you come in with a specific problem, don't be surprised when other issues start to improve as well. We encourage you to try Acupuncture either alone or in conjunction with Western Medicine for any of the following conditions:
Respiratory
Allergies, Sinusitis, Common Cold, Asthma
Skin Disorders
Wound healing, Scar tissue, Swelling, Flaking, Itching, Dryness, Redness,
WRINKLES!!!
Mouth Disorders
TMJ, Dental pain
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Gastritis, Acid Reflux, Colitis, Crohn's, Ulcers, Constipation, Diarrhea, IBS, Hiccups, Gas, Bloating, Indigestion, Gallstones, Nausea and Vomiting related to Chemotherapy or Pregnancy
Neurological Disorders
Headache, Migraine, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Paralysis following a Stroke, Bell's Palsy, Parkinson's Disease, Dizziness, Vertigo, Multiple Sclerosis, Shingles
Pain
Back, Neck, Knee, Low Back and Shoulder Pain
Muscle Spasms, Sports Injuries, Frozen shoulder, Tennis Elbow, Sciatica, Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, Fibromyalgia
Immunity
Chronic Colds and Infections
Heart and Circulation
Hypertension and Palpitations
Edema
Reproductive & Gynecological Conditions
PMS, Menstrual cramps, Irregular Menstration, Menopause, Hot Flashes, Night Sweats
Impotence, Incontinence
Infertility
Male or Female
Support for IVF
Emotional Wellbeing/ Mental Issues
Stress, Anger, Irritability, PTSD, Insomnia, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Grief
Addiction
Support for Drug and Nicotine addiction, Weight loss
Source: World Health Organization. Viewpoint on Acupuncture. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization, 1979.
For a more extensive list, see the World health Organization website at http://apps.who.int/medicinedocs/en/d/Js4926e/5.html
Respiratory
Allergies, Sinusitis, Common Cold, Asthma
Skin Disorders
Wound healing, Scar tissue, Swelling, Flaking, Itching, Dryness, Redness,
WRINKLES!!!
Mouth Disorders
TMJ, Dental pain
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Gastritis, Acid Reflux, Colitis, Crohn's, Ulcers, Constipation, Diarrhea, IBS, Hiccups, Gas, Bloating, Indigestion, Gallstones, Nausea and Vomiting related to Chemotherapy or Pregnancy
Neurological Disorders
Headache, Migraine, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Paralysis following a Stroke, Bell's Palsy, Parkinson's Disease, Dizziness, Vertigo, Multiple Sclerosis, Shingles
Pain
Back, Neck, Knee, Low Back and Shoulder Pain
Muscle Spasms, Sports Injuries, Frozen shoulder, Tennis Elbow, Sciatica, Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, Fibromyalgia
Immunity
Chronic Colds and Infections
Heart and Circulation
Hypertension and Palpitations
Edema
Reproductive & Gynecological Conditions
PMS, Menstrual cramps, Irregular Menstration, Menopause, Hot Flashes, Night Sweats
Impotence, Incontinence
Infertility
Male or Female
Support for IVF
Emotional Wellbeing/ Mental Issues
Stress, Anger, Irritability, PTSD, Insomnia, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Grief
Addiction
Support for Drug and Nicotine addiction, Weight loss
Source: World Health Organization. Viewpoint on Acupuncture. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization, 1979.
For a more extensive list, see the World health Organization website at http://apps.who.int/medicinedocs/en/d/Js4926e/5.html
How many Acupuncture treatments will I need?
It depends on the duration, severity and nature of the condition and your response to treatment. Some acute symptoms may be treated and relief found immediately. Other ailments must be treated over time in order to reach the root of the imbalance. It is generally suggested that you have at least 2 to 4 treatments in the first 2 weeks and evaluate your progress at that point. In some cases, a few treatments are all it takes. Generally speaking though, the longer you have had an ailment, the longer it can take to heal. On average, plan on 6-10 treatments. The goal is to get you to the point where you are not coming in anymore or you are coming in periodically to maintain and promote overall wellness or when a new injury or illness occurs.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are hair thin and flexible. They feel nothing like an injection from a hypodermic needle used in a doctors office. Those needles are thick enough to allow fluids to flow through the center and are generally pretty painful. Naturally Acupuncture uses the highest quality needles available, which results in a quick and easy insertion. It usually feels like a pinch with a tingling or pulling sensation. It is beneficial to feel "something" during a treatment so that you know a shift is happening. Most people feel extremely relaxed during a treatment and many fall asleep.
Is Acupuncture safe?
We always use disposable, sterile needles and use them once before disposing of them. Acupuncture is one of the safest medical treatments available and is free of many of the undesirable side effects that can accompany other options. In fact, the National Institute of Health has found that “one of the advantages of acupuncture is that the incidence of adverse effects is substantially lower than that of the many drugs or other accepted medical procedures used for the same condition”.
What can I expect during an Acupuncture treatment?
The interview is a very important part of the treatment. Before arriving, please download the patient forms and bring them with you for us to discuss. We will ask you many questions that may seem unrelated to your condition, however, this is a holistic medicine and many symptoms can all stem from the same root cause. We will carefully review your health history, look at your tongue (a key diagnostic tool), take your 12 acupuncture pulses (we feel for different characteristics than in a routine pulse exam), and palpate various acupuncture points before starting to diagnose your condition using a Chinese Medical Diagnosis. Your treatment will include acupuncture needles in various parts of the body, often not near the area of pain. Your treatment may also include other modalities such as Electric Stimulation, Cupping, Gua Sha, Tuina and Moxabustion as needed. You will relax with the needles in for about 20 minutes and should find that it is a very pleasant experience.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Please wear loose comfortable clothing. The most commonly used acupuncture points are located below the knee and the elbow, so your sleeves and pants need to be rolled up above these areas.
Is Acupuncture covered by insurance?
Some insurance companies cover Acupuncture treatments, others do not. If you're not sure, call your insurance company and check to see if they will cover your treatments. We will supply you with the necessary receipts and insurance codes for you to submit for reimbursement. We do accept workers Compensation and Car Insurance and can submit those for you. Additionally, if you have a company Health Savings Account, your Flexible Spending Plan may cover Acupuncture. Check with your employer.
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