Please find below a couple of our Frequently asked questions
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is a medical care system developed over thousands of years ago in China. It encounters a combination of treatments and therapies that considers the human being as a whole. Practitioners of TCM believe that there is no separation between mind and body and their interaction with the environment. The basic theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) describes an energy force that regulates the body’s overall health. This Life Force called "Chi" flows within us in a harmonious balanced way maintaining health. If this energy is not flowing properly or is imbalanced, illness will appear.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an important part of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves inserting very thin needles through a person's skin at specific points on the body and to various depths. The main goal is to restore the balance of Qi and the body’s overall health. Factors like anxiety, stress, poor nutrition, hereditary, infections, toxins, trauma or environmental changes can disrupt this flow of energy (Qi) and sickness may appear. Inserting needles into acupuncture points and using the appropriate combination may bring the energy flow back into proper balance.
The Chinese and other Eastern countries have been using acupuncture for about 2,500 years.The first reported needles in history made from stone and long sharp bones were used around 6000 BCE. Later bronze, gold and silver needles were also used. The first known medical book that documented Acupuncture procedures was the Huang Di Nei Jing (The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine) and dated from 260 BC - 300 BC.
The Chinese and other Eastern countries have been using acupuncture for about 2,500 years.The first reported needles in history made from stone and long sharp bones were used around 6000 BCE. Later bronze, gold and silver needles were also used. The first known medical book that documented Acupuncture procedures was the Huang Di Nei Jing (The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine) and dated from 260 BC - 300 BC.
How does acupuncture work?
Scientific research has shown that acupuncture points show a unique bioelectric properties. Nerve fibers create bundles around acupuncture points that showed a lower electrical resistance in comparison to other nearby skin areas. The insertion of the acupuncture needle into these points may disrupt the circuit producing a numb sensation and decreasing patient sensitivity to pain. The stimulation of acupuncture points cause physiological reactions, increasing the blood flow, affecting brain activity, releasing pain killing endorphins,enhancing the immune system, influencing blood pressure, balancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and enhancing the endocrine system. In essence, acupuncture treatment stimulates the body’s natural ability to heal itself and regain homeostasis.
Is acupuncture painful and what will I feel during a treatment?
During the insertion of the needle some patients will feel a slight prick, although most of them will feel nothing. Common Qi (energy) sensations around the needles include tingling, electrical sensations, warmth or a sense of heaviness at the insertion site. Stimulation of needles can be done manually, or by attaching electrodes that transmit a weak current or pulsation. Most people feel very relaxed during the session, and many even fall asleep.
How many treatments are necessary?
Each patient's health problems and their response to treatment is unique. Therefore, the number and frequency of treatments will vary. Initially, we usually recommend a series of six to ten treatments be given, but in general, acute conditions require less treatment than chronic conditions.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes we do accept insurance as payment method. Many PPO insurance cover acupuncture benefits.
You may also like to use your health savings account or flexible spending account card for acupuncture treatment and/or to purchase supplements or herbal medicine.
Please, call us to find out your eligibility, no fee, no obligations!.
How long does treatment take?
The initial consultation visit may lasts one hour or more. It includes intake questions, examination and treatment. Follow-up treatments tend to take only forty-five minutes, but can vary depending on the types of modalities used.
What are other treatment options or modalities?
Besides the traditional Acupuncture treatment, other effective modalities could be added to the treatment plan in order to get the desired physiological response, including: acupressure, Tuina (Oriental Therapeutic Massage), electronic stimulation (Electro-acupuncture), Moxibustion (warming of certain points with Chinese herbs), cupping therapy, Injection therapy with homeopathics, heat lamp, Nutritional and herbal therapy.
What will I feel like after a treatment?
After treatment patients feel very relaxed, or sometimes slightly tired; although others may feel energized and ready for their daily activities. If you experience discomfort during or after the treatment, it is usually mild and short term. The purpose of acupuncture treatment is to balance your body, therefore, there are no long-term negative side effects or restrictions after treatment.
Are acupuncture needles sterile and safe?
Yes, acupuncture needles are sterile and safe. They are pre-sterilized disposable, one-time used needles. They are also manufactured, packaged, and shipped in sterilized containers to ensure compliance with government strict sterilization laws.
We provide an individualized treatment to restore and preserve your optimum health. Please feel free to browse these pages for more information or contact us if you would like to get started, and schedule an appointment.