FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect during my treatment?
Your initial evaluation may take anywhere from 1½ – 2 hours, whereas follow up visits can range from 1 – 1½ hours, depending on your needs for relaxation. A simple medical history form will be required, so I can better assess your current condition.
I will carefully evaluate your personal condition with a holistic approach by asking questions about past and present medical history. I will look at your tongue and read your pulse, which are diagnostic tools in Traditional Chinese Medicine. I will be palpating various areas of the body for tenderness and do muscle testing. After arriving at a specific diagnostic conclusion, one or several of the following techniques will be incorporated:
* Needles:
Thin, sterile, stainless-steel needles are placed in specific acupuncture points. The needles are at least five times thinner than typical hypodermic needles and insertion is usually painless. You may feel a dull ache or tingling sensation when the needle is stimulated. Acupuncture is generally a very relaxing experience.
* Electric Stimulation:
Very low level electrical current is connected to the fine needles. This is often used for muscle spasms and acupuncture analgesia and to enhance point stimulation in general. It is also used for motor point acupuncture therapy, sometimes referred to as ‘dry needling’.
* Herbs:
Herbology is an intrinsic aspect of Oriental medicine. Herbs may be prescribed to reduce acute conditions or as a dietary supplement which will build and strengthen the body.
* Manual Therapy:
Light massage, tui na and body work are often applied in coordination with needling to aid relaxation and facilitate the movement of qi.
* Moxibustion:
Moxa is a Chinese herb (mugwort) which is rolled into sticks or cones and burned above the skin. This aromatic herb creates a sensation which is warming and pleasant and regulates the qi. Learn more
Can acupuncture needles spread disease?
No! I use sterile disposable needles. These needles are used once. These needles are used to stimulate one point on the body and then are properly disposed
What is expected of me during and after treatment?
This time has been set-aside solely for you. Relax and allow the healing process to occur. Feel free to ask questions or voice any concerns which arise during the treatment. Trust that all information is confidential. The treatment does not end when the needles are removed. Acupuncture has initiated a change within the body, and now it is your right and responsibility to ensure that these positive patterns are fostered. If possible, take some time to relax directly after your treatment. I recommend no strenuous activity for at least 2 hours after a treatment.
How should I prepare for my Acupuncture treatment?
Patients should eat a light meal before coming for an acupuncture treatment and should wear comfortable clothes. You should be prepared to refrain from rigorous exercise for at least two hours before and after treatment.
Occasionally some symptoms of illness may temporarily increase after treatment. This is known as a healing crisis, a positive sign that the body is rallying its strength to move old blockages and patterns of disease so that a balanced flow of energy may reestablish.
Most importantly, take an active part in your health care.
Because acupuncture regulates energy, it is important that when you arrive for treatment you are not exhausted, not too hungry, or too full! Under no circumstances should you have consumed alcoholic beverages or recreational drugs. If there is any chance you are pregnant, please let me know. If you experience any disagreeable problems as a result of herbal therapy, please call me.
How long does an acupuncture visit take?
Your first treatment is approximately 1½ – 2 hours and involves an initial consultation in which a diagnosis is made, and we determine which TCM treatments are right for you. After the initial consultation, we generally move right into a first treatment during the same visit. Follow-up visits consist of a shorter intake/diagnosis period before treatment, and include the resting period of the treatment itself. The entire treatment time generally lasts for 1 – 1½ hours.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR TREATMENT?
- Arrive 5 – 10 minutes early to unwind and relax.
- Wear loose fitting or comfortable clothes that can be rolled above to your knees and elbows to better access your acupuncture points.
- Please do not come to acupuncture on an empty stomach but do avoid eating a heavy meal for at least one hour prior to treatment.
- Click Here to download a PDF and fill out the form ahead of time for a more timely visit.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments needed to alleviate a disorder varies depending on the type of illness and the individual. Generally, acute diseases can be treated successfully within a few treatments. Chronic problems which have taken years to develop will not be “cured” overnight. Change over time will reflect the gradual restoration of the body’s strength and vitality. After your condition stabilizes or symptoms do not reappear, we recommend one treatment every 1 to 2 weeks to maintain your progress. After this we recommend acupuncture at least 1 x per month as part of your personal wellness program.
Packages
Packages are offered and provide a discounted price in sets of 3, 5, 10, 15 and 20. Acupuncture treatments are cumulative, so this is a great idea to get the most out of your treatment. Please ask about package prices!
The following are some examples for treatment periods.
- Digestive Issues: heartburn, IBS, etc.: It takes time as the body goes through different repair phases. Depending on severity it will take 8-25 treatments. This treatment will likely include herbs and supplements for best results.
- Pain: My goal is to reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of the pain and to promote functional movement, increase range of motion and improve quality of life. As with all conditions there are many co factors involved such as acute and chronic onset. On average, the number of acupuncture treatments range from 6-20 treatments bi-weekly for the condition to resolve and may involve follow up treatments to address common flareups.
- Anxiety/Depression/Stress: Recommended one course of treatment 1 -2x/week for 10-15 weeks. Chinese herbs are usually recommended for these treatments. **Additional courses of treatment may be necessary for long standing chronic suffers, but treatments will be reduced and spaced out longer. Regular monthly acupuncture is recommended as part of your wellness program and to maintain a deeper sense of well-being.
- Allergies: The goal is to reduce the intensity, frequency, and duration of allergy symptoms, and prevent future attacks by regulating the immune system and strengthening the lungs. As with all conditions there are many co factors involved such as, year-round allergies or seasonal allergies. We will tailor an individualized treatment plan to help with your needs. On average, the number of acupuncture treatments range from 4-10 treatments weekly/bi-weekly for the condition to resolve. This treatment plan generally involves herbal formulas for best results.
Will treatments be covered by my insurance?
Some insurance companies cover acupuncture. Please check with your insurance policy to see if you are covered for acupuncture. Please give us a call ahead of your appointment for coverage verification as this office accepts only certain insurance. When you arrive, if you will be using your insurance, please have your insurance card ready.
Other questions
If you have any questions not covered here, please don’t hesitate to ask.
