Q: What is acupuncture?
A: Acupuncture is just one part of Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM. It involves treating a wide range of diseases by inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body. It is gentle, safe and very effective at promoting circulation of blood and energy (called Qi). It is based on Daoist philosophies and has evolved over thousands of years from ancient China..
Q: What is Qi?
A: Qi is the energy of the body that flows through pathways, much like blood flow through the circulatory system. When Qi is blocked ( due to a variety of reasons ) acupuncture is used to facilitate the flow of qi, ultimately helping the body heal.
Q: Can acupuncture treat my condition?
A: Acupuncture has shown to be effective in treating a wide range of illnesses including chronic and acute pain, male and female infertility, digestive conditions, psychological conditions, autoimmune issues, allergy and more. It is backed by many robust clinical studies and also works rather quickly.
Q: Does acupuncture hurt?
A: Acupuncture needles are thin, sterile, and for the most part will not elicit a pain response. Many insertions you will feel nothing at all. And in some cases, the most you will feel is a very slight pinch. We promise!
Q: How many needles are used and how long will I rest on the treatment table?
A: This varies from patient to patient and condition to condition but for the most part anywhere from 8-12 insertions. Patients usually rest comfortably for 20-25 minutes until the needles are removed.
Q: Are the acupuncture needles sterile?
A: All acupuncture needles are sterile, prepackaged, used one time, on you, and then disposed of.
Q: Are there any side effects to acupuncture?
A: Side effects of needling is not commonly reported other than bruising at the site of insertion, and this happens very rarely.
Q: Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
A: Acupuncture treatment is covered by some insurances and we are in network with Aetna, Cigna, United Health (and others). In addition, we have been able to receive reimbursement from Blue Cross Blue Shield. Medicare unfortunately does not cover acupuncture treatment. Call us today and we can verify if your plan has coverage for acupuncture.
Q: I want to begin treatment, what do I do next?
A: Call us to schedule one of our free consultations where we can show you how we can help you.
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: This is determined on the nature of your condition. Chronic issues would require more treatment than acute conditions. We tailor treatment plans according to the needs of each patient.
Q: How frequently are visits spaced?
A: Most patients receive treatment 1 – 2 x per week in the initial stages and gradually tapered off as progress is made toward your therapeutic goals.
If you have more questions not seen on this page please give us a call. We’d be more than happy to answer any of your questions.