Below are frequently asked questions we get about Acupuncture and other holistic healing treatments. Simply click on each question below to jump right to the answer.
Who can benefit from Acupuncture?
How does Acupuncture work?
Why choose Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
Are treatments covered by insurance?
What are my practitioner’s qualifications?
What treatments do you offer, what do they involve, and what are the costs?
What should I expect regarding Acupuncture treatments?
Who can benefit from Acupuncture?
Acupuncture can benefit most people. Many people turn to acupuncture for relaxation and to alleviate the stress of daily life, while others use it to treat chronic conditions they’ve lived with for years or to address acute issues that arise. Acupuncture is widely practiced, and many individuals know someone who has had a positive experience with it.
Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body with very fine needles. Research shows that acupuncture triggers the release of chemicals that control pain, improves blood flow, and stimulates the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to release hormones. These actions help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling, and can promote overall relaxation.
Acupuncture has also been shown to improve hormonal balance, digestive function, and the body’s response to inflammation. Studies using MRI have demonstrated changes in brain activity during acupuncture treatments. While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms, acupuncture has a proven track record of effectiveness.
For more on acupuncture, check out Between Heaven and Earth by Harriet Beinfield and Efrem Korngold, or The Web That Has No Weaver by Ted J. Kaptchuk.
Why choose Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is highly effective for treating a wide variety of conditions and is often used for both healing and prevention. People turn to TCM for:
- Pain management
- Tissue healing
- Stress, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks
- Addiction recovery and detoxification
- Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue
- Headaches and migraines
- Immune system disorders
- Digestive issues
- Respiratory conditions
- Support during cancer treatments
- Post-stroke recovery and neurological support
Many people choose TCM as an adjunct to other treatments or as a standalone therapy to maintain overall balance and health.
Are treatments covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage for acupuncture varies depending on the policy and the condition being treated. Many policies cover acupuncture for pain management, and some may also cover other therapies such as acupressure, electrical stimulation, and heat application. A referral from a primary care physician may be required in some cases, and annual treatment limits may apply. Please check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
What should I expect regarding Acupuncture treatments?
Acupuncture is generally a painless experience. Most patients feel little to no discomfort during needle insertion, though some may feel a small pinch followed by a sensation of tingling, warmth, or heaviness. These sensations are normal and indicate that the acupuncture points are being activated. If you’re particularly sensitive or new to acupuncture, we can adjust the treatment to ensure your comfort.
Acupuncture uses very fine, solid, high-grade surgical stainless steel needles. These needles are pre-sterilized and disposable for safety and hygiene. Many conditions respond quickly to acupuncture, but for more chronic issues, gradual progress may be expected. Your treatment outcome can also depend on factors such as diet, lifestyle, and personal commitment to the healing process.