F.A.Q.

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning.
This is done by inserting needles at very precise acupuncture points.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

The classical Chinese explanation is that channels of energy run in regular patterns through the body and over its surface. These energy channels, called meridians, can be influenced by needling the acupuncture points; the acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the dams, and reestablish the regular flow through the meridians. Acupuncture treatments can therefore help the body’s internal organs to correct imbalances in their digestion, absorption, and energy production activities, and in the circulation of their energy through the meridians.

Does Acupuncture Really Work?

Yes. In the past 2,000 years, more people have been successfully treated with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Today, acupuncture is practiced in Asia, the now disbanded Soviet Union, and in Europe. It is now being used more and more in America by patients and physicians. Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time as other techniques are being used, such as conventional Western medicine, osteopathic or chiropractic adjustments, and homeopathic or naturopathic prescriptions. It is important that your physician-acupuncturist know everything that you are doing, so he or she can help you get the most benefits from all your treatments.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions, one or two treatments per week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health maintenance, four sessions a year may be all that is necessary.

Are There Any Side Effects To The Treatment?

Usually not. As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination pattern, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.

Is Acupuncture Covered By Health Insurance?

Some insurance companies currently cover acupuncture costs, while others do not yet recognize the value of acupuncture. Each health policy must be reviewed to determine acupuncture benefits. You can help by insisting that your insurance company offer you reimbursement for medically indicated acupuncture treatments before you accept their policy.

Are There Any Do's Or Don'ts On The Day Of Treatment?

Yes. To enhance the value of a treatment, the following guidelines are important;

• Do not eat an unusually large meal immediately before or after your treatment.

• Do not over-exercise, engage in sexual activity, or consume alcoholic beverages within six hours before or after treatment.

• Plan your activities so that after the treatments you can get some rest, or at least not have to be working at top performance. This is especially important for the first few visits.

• Continue to take any prescription medicines as directed by your regular doctor. Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) especially in the week prior to treatment, will seriously interfere with the effectiveness of the acupuncture treatments.

• Remember to keep good mental or written notes of what your response is to the treatment. This is important for your acupuncturist to know so that the follow-up treatments can be designed to best help you and your problem.

Chinese Herbal Formulas.

Most Chinese herbal formulas contain between two and eighteen herbs. The herbs work synergistically to help the body rebalance itself. Chinese herbal medicine is based on an individualized pattern diagnosis as well as disease diagnosis. This means the TCM patient receives a custom written herbal prescription designed to treat both the symptom or disease and the underlying pattern. Herbs can be used daily and are often a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care.

Can Chinese Medicine Help With Infertility?

Acupuncture has been shown to:

Increase blood flow to the uterus which improves chances of an ovum implanting on the uterine wall

Reduce anxiety, stress, and the hormones that are secreted during stressful situations

Normalize hormones and the endocrine system that regulate ovulation

Positively affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis which plays a key role in fertility

Regulate the menstrual cycle

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine provide a safe, effective, drug-free natural approach to treating infertility and enjoying a healthy pregnancy.