Frequently Asked Questions
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture exists in China for over three to five thousand years. Acupuncture is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is the stimulation of specific points located on the surface of the skin along the energy channels known as meridians that connect all organs through the human body including the head, torso, arms, hands, legs, feet, and internal organs. The life energy which flows along the course of the meridians is termed Qi (pronounced chee). According to the TCM theory, illness arises when the cyclical flow of Qi in the meridians becomes unbalanced or is blocked. Such stimulation of specific points can help restore the normal balance and flow of Qi so organs and bodily systems can work together in harmony as intended. This sets the stage for the body to repair itself and maintain its own health.
Will it hurt?
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin made from silver alloy typically stainless steel. You may feel little or no discomfort as the needles are inserted as the process is typically painless. You may feel different sensations including slight soreness, numbness, warmth, or pressure. These energetic sensation differs from pain. People often comment that the feeling is unfamiliar but pleasant and comforting.
Is it safe?
Acupuncture therapy has been used for thousands of years in China. Acupuncture is the treatment of choice for one-fourth of the world's population! The needles are FDA approved, individually packaged, pre-sterilized and disposed after a single use.
What should I expect for my first treatment?
After the first treatment has been administered, depending on the ailment being treated, many experiences may occur. Immediate, total or partial relief from pain or other symptoms may be experienced. Some patients experience a sudden burst of energy while others may feel relaxed. Many people experience a calming satisfaction. Small, localized bruises from minor bleeding under the skin are infrequent, but do occur. These are no cause for alarm, and despite the cosmetic inconvenience, they actually provide a kind of bonus treatment. The reabsorption of the blood continues the stimulation of the acupuncture point even without the needle in place.
What conditions can acupuncture treat?
Many conditions may be treated. General pain relief and control for arthritis, cervical spondylopathy, knee pain, hand and foot pain, sciatica, shoulder pain, tennis elbow, lower back and neck pain, tendonitis, etc. Other conditions such as circulatory problems with high or low blood pressure, cold hands and feet. Some nervous system imbalances can also be treated such as anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, depression, asthma, allergies and sinus problems; digestive disorders like Crohn's Disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, diarrhea, and constipation. Other common ailments treated include headaches, migraines, and low libido; treatments to help quit smoking, weight reduction, and many more conditions.
How does acupuncture work?
In traditional Chinese Medicine, there exists a meridian system through the human body. In this system, invisible passageways for energy are called meridians. There are certain points ( frequent more than 400, total more than 1,000 ) on the body that connect with certain organs and bodily functions. Point Groups on the body that apply to a specific organ or function are found along the same meridian. In a healthy, normal functioning body, the energy in these meridians flows freely resulting in a balanced system. When the flow of energy is interrupted from causes such as stress or injury, this energy is reduced throwing your "Qi" off balance. By performing acupuncture using the points associated with the particular meridian involved, this Qi or balance is restored.
Are the needles clean?
Acupuncture needles are FDA approved. These needles are pre-sterilized and individually wrapped. After the needles are used, they are disposed.
How many treatments will I need?
Since every person is unique in their own condition, the numbers of treatments will vary. The nature, severity and history of each patient's problem, as well as the individual himself or herself, are all factors that are involved in how many treatments will be necessary.
Are needles the only equipment involved?
Acupuncturist may use several techniques such as moxibustion, cupping, electric stimulation, and point stimulation to help with the patient's treatment.
Will it conflict with my other medications?
Acupuncture will not conflict with any of your medications. Acupuncture is used to complement and supplement your physician's treatments but not to replace them. You should discuss this issue with your physician and acupuncturist.
Does my health insurance cover acupuncture?
We accept UnitedHealthcare, Worker's Comp (Pinnacol Assurance) and Auto Insurance. We recommend you call your insurance company first to make sure that your benefits cover acupuncture. Please clarify with your insurance what co-pay or co-insurance you would need to pay at each visit.