Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy.
Your acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on the body. This activates the body’s Qi and promotes natural healing by enhancing recuperative power, immunity, and physical and emotional health. It also can improve overall function and well-being. It is a safe, painless, and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.

To treat any Qi imbalances, fine, sterile needles will be inserted at specific acupuncture points along the meridian pathways. Your acupuncturist will concentrate on acupuncture points related to specific organs, based on your unique issues and symptoms.
Your acupuncturist may include other related therapies in your treatment plan, such as Tui-Na, cupping, Gua-Sha, or moxibustion. Herbal remedies are another important aspect of acupuncture in TCM. It is important to understand and follow your acupuncturist's directions to get the most benefit from these treatments.

During the initial exam, a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms, health, and lifestyle including eating, exercise, sleep habits, emotional states, and anything that may offer insight into your health. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organised to create a complete, accurate, and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment.

There are twelve pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for twenty-seven individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.

The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks, and coating on your tongue.

Herbs can be a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They are used to strengthen, build, and support the body or to clear it of excess problems like a cold, fever, or acute pain. Your practitioner may suggest starting with herbs and then adding acupuncture to your treatment in the future. This is suggested to build up your internal strength so you can receive the full benefits acupuncture has to offer.

Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects just feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.

Yes. In some instances, children respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure or Tui-Na.

The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes.
Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors: your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem, and the quality and quantity of your Qi. Your acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week or monthly visits for health maintenance and seasonal “tune-ups”.

Insurance coverage varies. Contact your insurance provider to learn what kind of care is covered.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.

• Do not eat large meals just before or after the treatment.

• Refrain from overexertion, working out, drugs, or alcohol for up to six hours after the treatment.

• Avoid stressful situations. Make time to relax, and be sure to get plenty of rest.

• Between treatments, take notes of any changes that may have occurred, such as the alleviation of pain, pain moving to other areas, or changes in the frequency and type of problems.

Your actions are a key component of your treatment plan. Focusing on your health and committing to a healthy lifestyle are the best steps you can take for your well-being. Together, you and your acupuncturist can heal your imbalances and help you achieve harmony and balance.

Even after your symptoms are resolved, acupuncture can assist you in maintaining your health, and possibly prevent future imbalances. The more you incorporate acupuncture and TCM into your life, the more you’ll learn to nurture your body, mind, and spirit.

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Acupuncture is not an instant fix.

True healing takes time and dedication. Depending on your current health and symptoms, you could feel better right away, or you may need treatments for weeks, months, or years to achieve the results you want. Your acupuncturist can give you an idea of what to expect. With a little patience and an open mind, you’ll be on your way to health and vitality.

Acupuncture and TCM offer a safe and effective holistic healthcare system. This natural approach can both resolve symptoms and enhance your overall health.

By taking the right steps and planting the seeds of health, you are on the road to a healthier you!