Acupuncture is the insertion of extremely thin, sterilized, stainless steel needles into specific points on the body where there are special concentrations of qi (energy) and blood. These points are like switches or circuit breakers for regulating and balancing the flow of qi and blood in the body.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and can often penetrate the skin with no pain at all. Some areas may be more sensitive and feel like a small pinch as the needle in inserted, but that lasts for less than a second. Once the needles are in place, there should be no pain.
Are Acupuncture needles safe?
Acupuncture needles are very safe. Needles are pre-sterilized, single-use, and disposable. Our practitioners have all been trained in clean-needle technique.
How many treatments will I need?
That depends upon the duration, severity, and nature of your complaint. You may need only a single treatment for an acute condition. A series of five to fifteen treatments may resolve many chronic problems. Some treatments plans recommend 2-3 treatments per week while others recommend 1 treatment every week.
What if I don’t believe?
It does not matter whether or not a patient believes in the underlying philosophy of acupuncture; the body knows and will generally respond to treatment. In our experience, people don’t stay skeptical for long. /p>
Is Acupuncture covered by insurance?
A growing number of insurance companies will reimburse for Acupuncture treatments. Patients should contact their carrier to inquire. We will be happy to provide a bill for patients to submit to their carriers for reimbursement. Please note that full payment is due at time of service and we cannot guarantee reimbursement.
Are there discounts for Acupuncture treatments?
Discounted packages are available for Acupuncture treatments. For a package of 3 treatments the patient receives $5 off each treatment. Packages are non-refundable and non-transferable.
What should I do after treatment?
It is most beneficial to be able to relax and rest after treatment. Please avoid excessive physical activity, stressful situations, alcohol, and caffeine for a few hours after treatment.
How is herbal medicine different?
rbal medicine is clinically and conceptually different from western pharmaceutical drugs and even western folk herbalism. The model of western medicine treats diseases or symptoms without regard to their cause or etiology and side efffects are both common and accepted. In comparison, patients receive a herbal prescription designed to treat the underlying root cause or patterns. In order to treat the entire individual without side effects a herbal medicine formula may contain 5 to 20 different herbs. Herbs when used in conjunction with Acupuncture produce an effective regulatory effect on the body that is much gentler than pharmaceuticals.
How are Herbs Administered?
The traditional method of preparing herbs is to cook the raw herbs in water to form a decoction or tea. Depending on the condition and circumstances, the herbal practitioner may recommend taking the herbs in pill or capsule form, as an extract or in a powdered or granulated form.
What is herbal medicine good for?
Herbal medicine is appropriate for both acute and chronic conditions. It treat acute diseases, like intestinal flu and the common cold, as well as chronic diseases, such as allergies, gynecological disorders, chronic degenerative and viral diseases. Herbal medicine can also be used preventively for many conditions including providing help to women avoid many menopausal complaints, as well as people suffering from seasonal allergies. Herbal formulas are also available for cancer patients to help diminish the side effects of chemo and radiation therapy. In addition to acupuncture, you may be prescribed an herbal formula and given nutritional or lifestyle recommendations.
