How old is Chinese medicine?
Chinese medicine originated more than 3000 years ago.

What are the needles like?
Acupuncture needles are very fine, about the size of a thick hair. They are solid and nothing is injected through them. Over the centuries, refined needle insertion techniques have been developed which enable the skilled acupuncture practitioner to place a needle with little or no sensation to the patient.

Does it hurt?
The goal of acupuncture is not to cause pain but to establish a Qi response. People experience needling differently. During insertion, there is little to no pain. Some people have said that the insertion gives a small sensation and then disappears. The majority of my patients, though, never feel insertions. Most of the time I will try to activate the body's energy flow or Qi. The arrival of Qi is experienced differently. I have heard it described as tingling, grabbing, pulling, heating or a numbing sensation. Once the needles are in place and the treatment begun those feelings tend to subside and leave you in total relaxation. I take great care to make my clients very comfortable so that they can relax while the needles are in place. The more you can relax during an acupuncture treatment, the better the results. Many people even fall asleep during treatment. Following your treatment it is common to feel a tremendous sense of relaxation and calm. If you have a real fear of needles , an alternative treatment strategy can be discussed.

Are acupuncture needles safe?
Yes, because now acupuncturists treat with sterile and disposable, single-use needles that are approved by the FDA.

Should I stop other medication?
No, you should continue to follow your current physician's instructions. Please remember that in most cases, acupuncture is used to compliment and supplement your physician's treatments not to replace them.

How many treatments? How often?
The number of treatments can vary widely from patient to patient, primarily depending on overall health and duration of symptoms. However, most patients experience some relief within the first few treatments. Twice a week treatments are recommended for the more severe health conditions, while once a week generally benefits most patients. As your condition improves, the treatments are spread out to every other week, then monthly, until you no longer need treatment, or need treatment very occasionally.

What if I have a fear of needles?
Equally as effective as traditional Chinese acupuncture, a gentler style of acupuncture treatment was developed in Japan. This style of acupuncture uses thinner needles and painless non-needling techniques for the needle sensitive patient. Most patients do not notice the insertion of needles allowing those with a fear of needles to be treated by this effective healing system. Additionally, for the needle sensitive, and for children, there are non-needling techniques that are used with productive results. Moxabustion is a therapy in which the herb Artemesia Vulgaris is warmed over the body to improve Qi flow at specific areas. Traditional meridian message and cupping techniques are also particularly effective while mild and soothing.

How quickly can I expect to feel better?
It is important to remember that we are all individuals and individual response to treatment varies. An acute problem will sometimes improve after one treatment and might be resolved in as little as 4 to 5 additional treatments. A long term issue might take several sessions to resolve. I have seen numerous patients that feel better after 2 or 3 treatments.

Does insurance cover acupuncture treatments?
Some insurances provide coverage but you definitely will need to check with your insurance company. I do not accept insurance, but will give you a receipt that can be submitted to your insurance company for reimbursement. If you have injuries due to an automobile accident or work related injuries, your treatments will more than likely be covered by your auto or workman's comp insurance. However, you should contact your auto insurance or work insurance to confirm the acupuncture treatment coverage.