Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture?

The term acupuncture describes a family of procedures involving the stimulation of anatomical points on the body using a variety of techniques to vitalize ones healing energy. Acupuncture involves penetrating the skin with very thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation. Acupuncture has been practiced in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years. According to the 2002 National Health Interview Survey, an estimated 8.2 million U.S. adults have used acupuncture, and an estimated 2.1 million U.S. adults had used acupuncture in the previous year.

What is Chinese Medicine?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the body is seen as a delicate balance of two opposing, complementary and inseparable forces: yin and yang. Yin represents cold, slow, or passive aspects of the person, while yang represents hot, excited, or active aspects. The foundation of Traditional Chinese Medicine is the achievement and maintenance is the achievement and maintenance of health through the balance of yin and yang. Disease is caused by an imbalance leading to a blockage in the flow of qi (vital energy). Acupuncture, moxibustion, Chinese herbs, nutrition, exercise (meditation/qi gong, tai chi) and tui-na (Asian Bodywork) are the key components of Chinese medicine to balance the yin and yang of the body and regulate ones vital energy.

How effective is acupuncture?

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been studying acupuncture. Even though they have not been able to fully discover how acupuncture works, they recognize the efficacy of acupuncture. Promising results have emerged, for example, to treat adult post-operative dental and medical pain, chemotherapy nausea and vomiting. These are other situations addiction, stroke rehabilitation, headache, menstrual cramps, tennis elbow, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, osteoarthritis, low-back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and asthma, in which acupuncture may be useful as n adjunct treatment or an acceptable alternative, or be included in a comprehensive management program.

Can acupuncture be effective when other treatments have failed?

Absolutely. For many it is the last resort. Conventional medicine is very effective in suppressing symptoms, such as pain, but often does not address the root cause. During your first office visit, the practitioner will ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behavior. The practitioner will want to obtain a complete picture of your treatment needs and behaviors that may contribute to your condition. Please inform the acupuncturist about all treatments or medications you are taking and all medical conditions you have.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments needed depends on each person. In general, the longer you have suffered from the condition, the more treatments you will need. Also it depends on your age and general physical vitality. Most patients experience some relief after the first treatment. During your first visit, the practitioner will suggest how often and how long you should receive treatments.

Is acupuncture safe?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners, requiring that needles be manufactured and labeled according to certain standards. For example, the FDA requires needles to be sterile, nontoxic, and labeled for single use by qualified practitioners only.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are very fine unlike those on a syringe. You may feel no pain or a slight pinch when the needles are first inserted. After a needle is inserted, you may feel a slight soreness, tingling, numbness or heaviness, but this is a sign of vital energy arriving, a positive effect of acupuncture.

Can I be treated without needles?

If you are afraid of needles, there are other modalities. Relax. You are not forced to take needles. Most likely the practitioner will perform a different modality, such as moxibustion or tui-na (Asian bodywork), and recommend Chinese herbal treatment.

Does insurance cover acupuncture treatment?

More and more insurance companies provide acupuncture benefits, and we file insurance for patients whose plans cover acupuncture. Initially we will ask you to pay in full the amount for the service rendered, but we would be happy to file your claims for you and refund what was covered by your insurance. Place bring your insurance card and we will check your benefits. We recommend you check your insurance prior to receiving treatment.

I'm healthy. Should I still see you?

Absolutely. In fact, it is strongly recommended. The best way to be healthy is prevention. In the oldest Chinese medical classics they said, treating disease when you are sick is like making a weapon when the enemy is near or starting to dig a well when you are thirsty. We strongly recommend a regular visit, just like you go to your dentist for regular teeth cleanings to keep them healthy.