HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?
According to Chinese medical theory, energy or Qi (“chee”) runs through the body and along its surface in regular patterns called channels or meridians. These channels nourish and regulate the functions of the body. When the energy flows freely in these channels, health is maintained. When the energy is blocked or depleted, pain or  illness results. Needling acupuncture points normalizes the flow of Qi to help correct internal imbalances in the body.
A more scientific explanation of acupuncture is that the stimulation of certain trigger points on the body by acupuncture needles affects the autonomic nervous system, the vascular and endocrine physiology, and the brain chemistry, as well as the body’s production  of endorphins.

IS ACUPUNCTURE PAINFUL?
While most people express fear or anxiety of needles before their first treatment, they are surprised by the pleasantness of the acupuncture treatment. Unlike hypodermic needles used for injections, acupuncture needles are very fine about the thickness of a human hair. There should be very little or no discomfort with needle insertion. For your safety, only sterile and disposable needles are used. There are certain transient sensations, not considered painful, associated with the therapeutic effects of the acupuncture which may include euphoria, warmth, tingling, heaviness, distention, or numbness.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS DO I NEED?
Since each person is unique, the number of treatments will vary. Among the determining factors are the nature, severity, and  history of each person’s complaint, as well as the general health of the individual. Usually one or two treatments per week  are necessary to begin with. Many conditions can be alleviated very rapidly with acupuncture and herbs. Chronic illnesses  may  require treatment for several weeks or longer. Acute problems generally respond much faster. As in any form of medical  care,  the patient’s attitude, diet, determination, and lifestyle will affect the outcome and course of treatment.

DOES MEDICAL INSURANCE COVER ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT?
Some health insurances companies cover acupuncture treatment. You should contact your health insurance company to verify  acupuncture coverage. We would also be happy to verify coverage for you. Please call us to discuss the specifics of your  situation.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON THE FIRST VISIT?
During your first office visit, your practitioner may take a detailed medical history, discuss your symptoms, examine your  pulse and tongue then apply appropriate treatment according to the diagnosis derived from the intake. After arriving at a  specific diagnostic conclusion, one or several of the following techniques will be incorporated:

 ·Needles: Thin, sterile steel needles are placed in specific acupuncture points. The needles are at least five times  thinner than typical hypodermic needles and insertion is usually painless. You may feel a dull ache or tingling  sensation when the needle is stimulated. Acupuncture is generally a very relaxing experience.

  ·Electric Stimulation: Very low level electrical current may be applied to the needle or to the skin. This is often  used for the muscle spasms and acupuncture analgesia and to enhance point stimulation in general.

  ·Moxibustion: Moxa is a Chinese herb (mugwort) which is rolled into sticks or cones and burned above the skin. This  aromatic herb creates a sensation which is warming and pleasant and regulates the Qi.

 ·Massage: Massage and body work are often applied in coordination with needling to release muscle spasms.

  ·Herbs: Herbology is an intrinsic aspect of Oriental medicine. Herbs may be prescribed to reduce acute conditions or  as a dietary supplement which will build and strengthen the body.