Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from a treatment session?
Upon the initial meeting, the acupuncturist will take a thorough history of overall patient health, diet, lifestyle factors, and chief complaints. Then, a physical exam including palpation, orthopedic special tests, muscle testing, as well as pulse and tongue examination will take place. After this initial evaluation, the patient will receive acupuncture and massage specific for his/her condition or overall state of health. Acupuncture treatment will consist of insertion of stainless steel, pre-sterilized and disposable filiform needles into the skin usually to a depth of one-half to one inch. Typically, several acu-points are selected and the needles are left in from 20 to 40 minutes. Stimulation can be done by rotating the needles manually or attaching electrodes to send a weak electric current through the needles (electroacupuncture). Therapeutic bodywork will normally follow acupuncture treatments and may include deep tissue, myofascial release, Tui Na, foot reflexology, and/or Thai massage with stretching. Following the Acussage treatment, yoga postures and exercises will be prescribed for the patient to practice between sessions to reinforce the treatments and maintain a balanced system.
What are the benefits of acupuncture therapy?
Chinese medicine is a comprehensive holistic medicine that can address many health problems. Some of the most commonly treated issues, which have been well researched and shown effective in clinical trials are:
- acute and chronic lower back pain due to vertebral disk herniation, degenerative disk disease, simple muscle strain, or acute sprain
- nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy treatment, pregnancy or post-surgery recovery
- knee pain due to arthritis.
- allergies, asthma
- anxiety, depression, stress
- bladder or kidney problems, sexual dysfunction
- constipation, diarrhea, acid reflux
- colds, influenza, dizziness
- drug/alcohol/smoking addiction
- fatigue
- headache, migraine
- heart problems
- high blood pressure
- immune system deficiency
- menopausal discomfort, pre-menstrual syndrome
- paralysis, numbness, parasthesias
- skin problems
- stroke rehabilitation
- tendonitis
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most people report pleasant experiences with acupuncture. There may be no sensation upon insertion of needles depending on location (hands and feet are more sensitive), the condition being treated, and technique of the acupuncturist. In certain cases, the patient may feel a dull ache, vibration, or warm sensation at the needle, all of which indicate activation of the acu-point and are positive for treatment outcome. Any sharp sensation upon needling should go away momentarily or be brought to the attention of the acupuncturist.
Are there any treatment precautions?
During states of extreme hunger or exhaustion, acupuncture is not recommended. It is important to have a small meal before treatment as well as plenty of water. It is important to be aware of any bleeding disorder or the use of blood thinning medications before treatment. During pregnancy, the acupuncturist will exercise caution, so it is important to know of this condition. In addition, having a pacemaker will change the acu-points chosen.
There may be some slight bruising or muscle soreness after acupuncture depending on the situation and approach. The muscles soreness should feel like what one does after a hard workout, but usually lasts only 24 hours or less.
There may be some slight bruising or muscle soreness after acupuncture depending on the situation and approach. The muscles soreness should feel like what one does after a hard workout, but usually lasts only 24 hours or less.
How much does an In-House appointment cost?
We are offering a special for new patients of $100 for an initial consultation and treatment and $75 per follow-up treatment session. Treatments include acupuncture and or electro-acupuncture, therapeutic and/or deep tissue massage, stretching, and exercise instruction. Refer us to a friend or family member and receive half-off your next treatment.