points east

FAQs

 

Is it safe?

Acupuncture is absolutely safe when performed by trained, skilled practitioners.  The most likely side effect is a small bruise where the needle was inserted, but even this is uncommon.

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Does it hurt?

Acupuncture is rarely described as painful, and adjustments can immediately be made if you feel any discomfort. The insertion of the needle feels similar to being tapped with a toothpick.  Once the needle is inserted, people often describe the sensation as warming, heavy, numb or tingling. I take great care to make my patients 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.

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What kind of needles are used?

Acupuncture needles are solid, not hollow like needles used by doctors. They are small and thin as a cat's whisker, and can literally be bent with your pinky.

Only sterile, disposable needles are used so there is no risk of infection. We use a needle once, then dispose of it.

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Are the non-needle treatments available?

Yes.  We offer several needless treatment options.  Acupuncture points can be stimulated with massage (acupressure), cupping, gua sha, and magnets.  Shiatsu is also very effective at stimulating acupuncture points.

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How does acupuncture work?

Short answer: Acupuncture uses thin needles to promote the flow of energy (qi) throughout the body, which helps facilitate your natural healing mechanisms.  Long answer:  click here

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Do I have to believe in it for it to work?

No. Acupuncture works whether or not you think it will. Acupuncture is even used successfully on animals and children, who have no understanding or belief in the process. Of course a positive attitude helps with any type of therapy but it is not necessary to believe in acupuncture (or to feel it working) for it to work.

If you have any questions, concerns, or about acupuncture and herbal medicine, I invite you to contact me, and I will personally respond to any questions or comments promptly.

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How long before I feel better?

Acupuncture is a natural medicine that is assisting your body to make changes. This can be a gradual process. Some patients may experience dramatic results with just one or two treatments, but most see results build over several treatments. In general, relief will be apparent in three to four treatments, and most people will experience better energy and a feeling of well being after the first treatment.         

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Does insurance cover acupuncture?

More and more insurance companies are covering acupuncture. Please check with your insurance provider to find out if your policy covers acupuncture and how many visits you are allowed per year. Acupuncture is also covered by most FSA and HSA accounts.

Payment for your treatment is due at the time of your visit. You will be provided with a Superbill for each visit, which you can submit to your insurance provider for full or partial reimbursement of the cost of your visit, depending on your policy. Your insurance provider will reimburse you directly.

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Are herbs Safe?

Chinese herbs have been used effectively and safely for thousands of years.  When prescribed by trained practitioners, the Chinese herbal formulas are individualized for your particular condition, extremely effective and rarely have any side effects. The herbal companies that we use are meticulous about the potency, quality and safety of every product.  Just as with your traditional doctor, please be sure to let us know all the prescriptions, supplements and vitamins you take so that we can be sure to prescribe the most effective formula.  

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What do herbs taste like?

We offer multiple options of herbal preparations, depending on the sensitivity of your palate.  Herbal formulas are often prepared as a tincture or as a tea.  Many people do not find the taste objectionable, but for those patients who do, we also offer herbal pills, which have no taste at all.