F.A.Q.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a treatment based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a system if healing that dates back thousands of years. At the core of TCM is the notion that a type of life force or energy, known as qi (pronounced "chee"), flows through channels in the body called meridians. Each meridian is connected to one specific organ, or group of organs, that governs particular bodily functions. When there's too little or too much qi in a meridian or when the qi stagnates or is blocked, illness results. Acupuncture treatment consists of inserting thin stainless steel needles at various points on the body, known as gateways, to unblock or rebalance the flow of qi.

What does an acupuncturist do?

In addition to asking questions, the acupuncturist may want to take your pulse at several points along the wrist and look at your tongue to observe it's shape, color, and coating. He or she may also observe the color and texture of your skin, your posture, and other physical characteristics that offer clues to your health. You will then be asked to lie down on a padded examining table, and the acupuncturist will insert the needles, twirling or gently jiggling each as it goes in.

How long will my treatment take?

Treatments generally take about 40 minutes or so, allowing adequate time for a consultation with your acupuncturist.

Is acupuncture treatment painful?

One would assume inserting a needle into the skin would be painful since most of us can relate to being stuck with a pin or having a hypodermic injection. But while you will feel the needle being inserted, most patients do not describe it as painful, rather they describe it as a sensation of mild to moderate heaviness or tingling.

What is electronic stimulation?

Needles obviously still have their place in clinical practice. However, many physicians certified in acupuncture and licensed acupuncturists are employing electronic and laser stimulation to the acupuncture point with equal effectiveness as the needle. Both of these procedures are painless and are quickly becoming standard worldwide. The tapping needle is not really a needle as it does not pierce the skin. It produces a mild to moderate sensation. Compare it to tapping a ball point pen on the skin. This form of stimulation has been used successfully for centuries. Thumb pressure is equally impressive and not considered painful.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of acupuncture treatments needed depends on the complexity of your illness, whether it's a chronic or recent condition, and your general state of health. For example, you may need only one treatment for a recent wrist sprain, whereas for a longstanding, chronic illness you may need treatments once or twice a week for several months to get good results.

Are there conditions that should not be treated with acupuncture?

Some physicians and practitioners may avoid treatment during pregnancy.

Is there anything I should watch out for?

If your acupuncturist is qualified to dispense herbs and would like you to take them as part of your treatment, first discuss it with your physician. Herbs are potent substances that can be harmful if you suffer from certain conditions; they can also interact with drugs you may be taking and cause side effects. In addition, be sure your acupuncturist uses only disposable needles.

What should you expect during acupuncture treatment?

Most patients find the treatment very relaxing, which brings on a feeling of well-being. Most are surprised at how comfortable they are during treatment and how easily the needles are placed. Some people even go to sleep during treatment.

Is Acupuncture safe?

Yes. One of the greatest advantages of acupuncture is the absence of serious side effects, and the ability to treat several conditions or ailments simultaneously. Needles generally cause no bleeding on entry or removal. Most acupuncturists use one-time disposable needles. There is a minimal risk.

How can I find a qualified practitioner in my local area?

There are several ways to find a qualified practitioner. A few states require acupuncturists to be licensed and confer a title (such as L.Ac.) that these acupuncturists can use to identify themselves. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine certifies acupuncturists (Dipl. Ac.) and practitioners of Chinese herbal medicine (Dipl. C.H.) upon passing a qualifying exam.

How much does a treatment cost?

Each visit costs $80 in our clinic. Herbal therapy is additional.

Will my medical insurance cover acupuncture treatments?

An increasing number of insurance providers, such as BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealth, Oxford, And Kaiser Permanente, now cover all or part of the cost of acupuncture treatments, but they may have restrictions on the types of illnesses covered. Check with your insurance company to see what your policy offers.

If you have any questions

...About whether or not acupuncture is for you or about any of our program. We are available for a courtesy consultation in person, by email, or by phone as time permits. We are here to serve you and give you the very best care.

For more information, please also visit our another website www.acupuncture4women.com