What does an acupuncturist do?

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By inserting fine, sterile needles at specific points, an acupuncturist is able to break up blockages that have hampered the smooth flow of Qi. Once this is done, Qi can travel freely throughout the body, promoting pain-free health, well-being and vitality.

Not only can acupuncture treat signs and symptoms of pain and discomfort, it can also get to the root of the problem. When the initial cause of the pain is corrected, your body can begin to heal on deeper levels. Your acupuncturist may also suggest adjunct therapies to enhance treatment and speed healing, such as: massage, stretching, yoga, herbal supplements and dietary changes.

 

Why do they want to feel my pulse?

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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.

 

What will my acupuncturist do?

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During the initial exam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms, health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized 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. Visits with your acupuncturist may last from thirty to ninety minutes.

 

Why do they want to look at my tongue?

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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.

 

Why did my acupuncturist recommend herbs?

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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.

 

Is acupuncture safe for children?

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Yes. In some instances children actually 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 tuina.

 

How many treatments will I need?

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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. An acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week, or monthly visits for health maintenance and seasonal “tune ups”.

 

How should I prepare?

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•Write down and bring any questions you have. We are here to help you.

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

•Do not eat large meals just before or after your visit.

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

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

•Between visits, 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.

 

How safe is acupuncture?

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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.

 

How are acupuncturists educated?

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Today, acupuncturists undertake three to four years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in every state.

 

What does acupuncture feel like?

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Acupuncture needles are extremely thin, as thin as 1/5000th of an inch, and are inserted to depths ranging from 1/8th to 1 inch, depending on the area of the body.  Because of their thinness, many patients feel nothing when needles are inserted.   Some feel a very slight sensation similar to being gently touched by a pencil tip.  Extremely few patients report feeling discomfort during treatment.  For those who are sensitive to needles, alternative treatments can be recommended, such as tui na, cupping, Chinese herbs, or acu-pressure.

 

Will my insurance cover acupuncture?

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Insurance coverage varies from state to state. Contact your insurance provider to learn what kind of care is covered. Here are a few questions to ask:

• Will my plan cover acupuncture?

• How many visits per calendar year?

• Do I need a referral?

• Do I have a co-pay?

• Do I have a deductible?

• If yes, has it been met?