faq
In general, acupuncture is painless. Very thin, sterile, flexible needles are gently inserted into the skin. Sometimes people feel a little electrical sensation, feeling of heaviness or dullness when the needles are being inserted that usually goes away momentarily.
How does acupuncture work?
Chinese medicine views the body as a network of channels with specific points that have demonstrated to influence body functions and systems. Points are specifically chosen and needles are inserted to bring balance and restore health.
How do you combine Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda?
Both systems of medicine have their own unique tools to promote health and healing. Patient preference and what is being treated will dictate which system will provide the most effective results, and often sessions are a blend of both.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends what is being treated, how long you have had the condition/imbalance for, and your lifestyle. In general, acute conditions resolve fairly quickly with acupuncture. Chronic conditions can take a few months of regular acupuncture treatments. Lasting results are seen quicker when the patient is actively working with their diet, lifestyle and taking herbal medicine.
For example, if you are coming in for a recent case of insomnia, one treatment per week for 3-4 weeks will likely resolve especially if taking herbs and making lifestyle changes. If you are coming in for endometriosis that you have had for 2 years, it might take a weekly treatment for 2 months, and then we can move to 1-2 times per month. Most patients notice changes just after one treatment and continued improvement from a series of treatments.
How can I prepare for my treatment?
Eat a light meal or snack before and wear comfortable clothes.
What can I expect after acupuncture?
Patients typically report feeling very relaxed or energized afterwards. Please don’t plan on any strenuous exercise for two hours after your treatment. Sometimes a small red dot will appear where the needle was placed and typically goes away within a few hours. If you are having an adjunct therapy applied, such as cupping, small circular bruising will appear that disappear within a few days but can last up to one week.
What adjunct therapies are offered?
Cupping therapy, electro-stimulation, moxibustion, nasya, herbal medicine, nutraceutical guidance and essential oils are offered.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Yes, acupuncture is safe during pregnancy and fantastic to prepare for labor. It can safely treat many common ailments such as:
- Morning sickness
- Back pain, sciatica
- Fatigue
- Indigestion, heartburn and other digestive imbalances
- Anxiety and insomnia
What is offered for children?
I offer a variety of natural health treatments for children.
The most common is called “Sho-Ni-Shin”, which is a non-invasive Japanese technique. It is kind of like “needle-free” acupuncture. Small tools are used to brush channels and stimulate points to bring balance to your child’s body. It is useful for many conditions such as:
- Colds, flus, fever and sore throat
- Weakened immunity
- Insomnia, stress and anxiety
- Digestive imbalances
- ADHD
- Ear infections
I also employ safe and gentle herbal medicine, give dietary and lifestyle guidance and use essential oils for children. Many teens and older children come in for shorter acupuncture treatments in conjunction with other therapies.
DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?
No, we do not accept any insurance.
We are happy to provide super bills for you, if you have acupuncture coverage and want to submit your bills for reimbursement. Many of our patients do this. We prepare your super bills with all the updated codes required by insurance companies for reimbursement.
All fees are due at the time of service.
You are welcome to pay with your HSA (health savings account) or FSA (flexible spending account) spending credit cards.
