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FAQs
What is Acupuncture and how does it work? Qi is a universal life energy that circulates within every living creature along specific pathways called Meridians. Each meridian is connected to specific internal organs and their function. Good health depends on the smooth flow of Qi and the obstruction or deficiency of Qi will eventually lead to pain and illness. Through the insertion of very fine, hair-like needles at specific points on the meridians, acupuncture stimulates the unblocking, strengthening and balancing of the flow of Qi, regulating the function of the related organs. It is part of a complete medical system and integrated approach to health maintenance and treatment of disease. Scientific research has discovered that the acupuncture points show a variety of unique bioelectrical properties, and that stimulating them causes definite physiological reactions affecting brain activity, blood pressure, heart rate, nervous system, endocrine and immune system, helping the body to achieve a state of homeostasis. Strengthening the body's immune system mobilizes the natural defense power inside the human body, the major mechanism of anti-inflammatory and anti-infection effects induced by acupuncture. It has also been proven that acupuncture triggers the production of endorphins, the body's natural pain-killers. Many people find that occasional acupuncture tune-ups are the best medicine to feel ³in-sync² and insure continuing health. Does Acupuncture hurt? Most people are surprised to learn that acupuncture needles are very thin. Acupuncturists attain a high level of skill in gently placing these tiny needles, and often the insertion is barely perceptible. You may feel a vague numbness, heaviness, electric sensation or slight tingling either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridian. After treatments, most patients feel very relaxed and refreshed. Some patients may fall asleep during treatment. Can I combine Acupuncture with other medical treatments? Acupuncture can be used along side conventional western medicine, osteopathic, chiropractic adjustments, or naturopathic prescriptions. It is important that you inform your acupuncturist of all your other treatments. Is Acupuncture Safe? Acupuncture is very safe when practiced by a trained and licensed practitioner. Also because it is drug-free, you avoid the risk of drugs which can cause many side-effects or dependency. During each acupuncture session your treatment is adjusted according to your symptoms so that you receive constant monitoring of any changes. Only DISPOSALBE NEEDLES are used in our clinic. These needles are discarded after each use, insuring you absolute safety. Always inform any health practitioner about all pre-existing conditions, known problems and medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant, and if you have a pacemaker. Acupuncturists receive a extensive training and are licensed by strict state regulatory boards. Many acupuncturists work closely with medical doctors in their local community who regularly find that the combination of treatments is very effective and beneficial for the patient. Are there any Side-Effects? Harmful side effects to acupuncture are very rare. Occasionally there may be a drop of blood when the needles are removed, and slight bruising may occur at the point of the needle insertion. Can Acupuncture improve Athletic Performance or treat Sports Injuries? Absolutely yes. It can speed healing and eliminate the discomfort of many sports injuries. Can Acupuncture be used with Infants or Children? Yes. Needle-less treatment is primarily used for young children or quick insertion/removal of needles that is barely noticed. Infants and babies can also be successfully treated for colic, earache, cerebral palsy, myopia, and bed-wetting. Many parents have found that by introducing their children to acupuncture, many childhood diseases are avoided. Parents are encouraged to have their children treated every month as a preventive measure and many children actually enjoy the visit to the acupuncturist. Yes. It is for people of all ages, but the elderly can often experience great benefits from enhanced circulation and energy. It can assist with insomnia, increase mental clarity and regulate blood pressure. In the Orient it is recommended for stroke patients as soon as possible after their diagnosis and is helpful in eliminating or decreasing related paralysis. How many treatments will I need? Because each person is unique and types of conditions differ, the number of treatments vary. A course of treatment usually takes between four to ten sessions. In order to get the best therapeutic results, acute cases should be treated daily for a few days, followed by prolonged intervals; however, chronic cases usually need two or three visit per week for several months for best results. In chronic cases, the patient should still try to complete the entire course of treatment because most of these cases require more effort to restore their energy balance. For health maintenance, periodic treatments of once every one to two weeks is recommended. This helps the internal organs to function in a continuous balanced condition and improves the whole body's physiological ability. How long will each treatment take? Initial consultation and treatment can take up to one hour. A complete medical history is taken, an Oriental medical diagnosis is made, treatment is administered, and if necessary an herbal prescription is prepared. Follow-up visits typically take 30-45minutes. Is there any preparation before an Acupuncture treatment? Before you come in the clinic, make sure that you have had a light meal and enough water. Does insurance pay for Acupuncture treatments? Many insurance companies currently cover acupuncture costs. In our clinic we provide a Super Bill for you to submit to your insurance company. We do not directly bill the insurance. What is Chinese Herbal Medicine? Herbal Medicine is the main treatment method within Traditional Chinese Medicine, which is the world's oldest, continually practiced professional medicine of over 2,500 years. Although Acupuncture was the first Chinese method of treatment to gain wide acceptance in the West, Chinese Herbal Medicine is now quickly establishing itself as one of the most popular and effective alternative therapies. Chinese Herbal Medicine includes plants, minerals, and animal products. Over 7,000 herbs have been identified in China, 400 of which are most commonly used in variations in formulas. According to Chinese Medical Theory, each herb has a different taste, temperature and numerous specific functions. Depending on the condition and syndrome, the Chinese Medical practitioner will choose different properties of herbs to create a formula to address the patients particular needs. A practitioner who makes use of herbs is familiar with most of the 1,800 herbs in Chinese pharmacopeia. Is Chinese Herbal Medicine Safe? Yes, if your herbal formula was prescribed by a licensed acupuncturist / herbalist. One of the most appealing qualities of Chinese Herbal Medicine is the low risk of adverse reactions. Can I take Chinese Herbs before my surgery? Chinese Herbs can be taken to strengthen your immune system before surgery. However, it is recommended that you cease taking herbs five days before the surgery and resume once again after your surgery. It is best to consult with your practitioner prior to this. Can pregnant women take Chinese herbs? Yes, if Chinese herbs are prescribed by a licensed acupuncturist / herbalist. Please do not take any herbal products during pregnancy without consulting your practitioner, since without the proper knowledge, the incorrect use of herbs may lead to uterine bleeding, miscarriage or fetal death. What is the difference between Western folk herbalism and Chinese Herbal Medicine? Within Chinese herbal medicine, not everyone with the same disease is given the same herbs. Each individual's unique constitution and relationship to the environment is evaluated before an herbal prescription is devised. Chinese herbal medicine usually uses a formula which contains 4 to 16 different herbs designed to balance each effect and address the individual's symptoms as well as the root cause and therefore the entire pattern of disease. Western herbal medicine primarily uses a single herb or groups of herbs which treat symptoms only. Can I take Chinese Herbs if I am taking Western Drugs? Most often there will be no negative reaction if they are taken at the same time - preferably 1-2 hours apart. However, it is best to inform your Chinese Medicine practitioner of all medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbs that you are taking to make certain of any interactions they may have. What are the different forms of Chinese herbal preparations and what is the difference? Chinese Herbal Medicine can be given in 7 forms:
Concentrated Powder Herbs - are precooked and packed into small packages. They are the closest in strength to the Raw Herb decoctions and therefore very effective. They do not require the preparation time of raw herbs, but are mixed together in hot water and drunk throughout the day. Powder Granules - are premixed based on the individual formula that was prescribed. They can be mixed into water or just taken directly onto the tongue or as a capsule and swallowed down with water. Liquid Extracts - are pre-made patent formulas that cannot be altered. They are often mixed with alcohol for preservation and drops are taken mixed with water or directly onto the tongue. Pills - are pre-made patent formulas that cannot be altered. Depending on the companies that have made them, their quality may vary. They are easily administered, especially in the case of chronic disease where the formula does not have to be very potent or changed on a frequent basis. Liniments and Plasters - these materials are for external use only. They contain herbal remedies and are generally used to relieve pain and promote healing. Ointments - can be in the form of a cream or liquid for external use only for skin conditions, certain types of infections, etc. How long does it take to see results with Chinese Herbal Medicine? Depending on the condition, results can be experienced immediately or up to two weeks in more chronic cases. Chronic cases usually require taking Herbal Medicine for a longer time. |
