ACUPUNCTUREACUPUNCTURE: WHAT IS IT? Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning. This is done by inserting needles and applying stimulation 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, are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish the tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers can cause disease. The meridians can be influenced by needling the acupuncture points; the acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions, 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. The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being. WHAT IS THE SCOPE OF ACUPUNCTURE? Medical acupuncture is a system which can influence three areas of health care:
While acupuncture is often associated with pain control, in the hands of a well-trained practitioner it has much broader applications. Acupuncture can be effective as the only treatment used, or as the support or adjunct to other medical treatment forms in many medical and surgical disorders. The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of medical problems, including:
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 a week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required. ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS TO THE TREATMENT? Usually not. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or you may experience bruising where the needles were inserted. These should not cause concern. 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. WHAT ARE THE NEEDLES LIKE? DO THEY HURT? People experience acupuncture needling differently. Most patients feel only minimal pain as the needles are inserted; some feel no pain at all. Once the needles are in place, there is no pain felt. Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid and are made from stainless steel. The point is smooth (not hollow with cutting edges like a hypodermic needle) and insertion through the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling. The risk of bruising and skin irritation is less than when using a hollow needle. 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 widely in Asia, the 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 other techniques are being used, such as chiropractic adjustments, and homeopathic prescriptions. It is important that your acupuncturist know everything that you are doing, so he or she can help you get the most benefit from all your treatments. IS ACUPUNCTURE COVERED BY HEALTH INSURANCE? Most insurance companies currently cover acupuncture costs, other companies do not yet recognize the value of acupuncture. Each health policy must be reviewed to determine acupuncture benefits. More and more insurance companies are recognizing the value of providing coverage for acupuncture services. PROFESSIONAL FEES? Initial Assessment - $70 Subsequent Visits - $37 Seniors & Children - $33 Complete the form and get a coupon for 50% OFF your first visit | ||||||
