FAQ
Do acupuncture needles hurt?
Most patients would say the insertion of an acupuncture needle is not painful. Acupuncture needles are very thin, as fine as a single human hair. Feeling a little prick as the needle enters the skin is common but this sensation does not last long and generally is only slightly uncomfortable. The needles are inserted quickly so that little or no discomfort is felt. We adjust our treatments based on the individual patient’s comfort level.
How does acupuncture work?
The basic theory behind acupuncture and herbal medicine recognizes that th body is an integrated, whole system. Health is maintained when there is a smooth flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”) through out the body. Qi is the chinese word for energy; it is often defined as “life-force”. Qi circulates through the body and connects with specific organs, organ systems, and body structures. If circulation of Qi is disrupted, normal function is impaired, resulting in illness, pain , or disease processes.
In Western medical theory, acupuncture appears to work by stimulating parts of the brain. It also stimulates the body to release natural biomolecules such as neurotransmitters, vasodilators, and hormones. The exact mechanisms which brings this about are unknown, but the effects are measurable.
What will I feel during the treatment?
There are certain sensations associated with the therapeutic effects of acupuncture, which are known as de qi (pronounced “day-chee”). After the needles are inserted you may feel a tingling sensation in different parts of your body. The sensation is very relaxing and often patients fall asleep during the treatment. Upon completion of the treatment session people often feel refreshed and more grounded.
What Should I Expect On My First Visit?
During your first office visit, we spend a lot of time getting a complete picture of your health and lifestyle. We examine the condition of your tongue (is it cracked, coated, excessively pink? etc.), and check your pulse on both wrists (the quality of your pulse gives information about possible imbalances). We’ll also ask questions about your emotional state, and specific symptoms you may have.
This is done because unlike Western medicine, we treat the whole person instead of focusing on the symptoms of your condition. The first visit can last from an hour to an hour and a half, and end with an acupuncture treatment lasting another 30-60 minutes.
Your subsequent visits will be much faster - usually an hour long. We’ll make a short review of your progress followed by an acupuncture treatment.
How often would I need to come in for treatment?
The number of treatments depends on the individual and the condition being treated. Generally, the longer you have lived with a disease, the longer it takes to heal. For acute conditions only 2 to 5 treatments may be necessary. For chronic conditions fifteen or more visits are often necessary. How an individual responds to the treatment is evaluated at each visit.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is a natural, drug-free treatment that addresses specific health problems and promotes overall wellness at the same time. Infections from needles are very rare because the needles are sterile and used only once before being disposed of properly. Every licensed practitioner gets extensive training in anatomy so as to avoid inserting a needle in a place that can cause damage. Slight bruising is really the worst side-effect caused by acupuncture.
If I decide to take Chinese herbs, how long will I need to take them?
This depends on the herbal formula and the condition being treated. Some prescriptions take effect immediately, others take 2 to 3 weeks to show changes.
Does insurance cover acupuncture?
Some insurers cover acupuncture. You can usually find out by calling the number on your insurance card. We provide a superbill that provides all the information you need to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. It is a standardized form which insurers expect.
