Frequently Asked Questions about Acupuncture
What conditions can Acupuncture Treat?
Acupuncture is highly effective for almost any condition that Western medicine can treat, and for many it is more effective. Some of the most common ailments for which patients seek treatments are:
- headaches
- back and joint pain
- gynecological conditions
- carpel tunnel syndrome
- depression
- insomnia
- asthma
- addiction
- stroke
- sexual disfunction
- bladder/kidney disorders
- high blood pressure
- immune system deficiency
- colds and flu
- side effects of surgery and chemotherapy
What can I expect during a treatment?
Because the body is an integrated system, Acupuncturists diagnose the specific ailment based on a holistic assessment of your overall health.
The Acupuncturist will ask about your medical history, current condition, lifestyle, appetite, body temperature, pain patterns, etc. She will also check your tongue, posture, and skin color nd take your pulse in both wrists for signs or organ or energy imbalance.
With this information, the Acupuncturist will determine where to insert needles, use gentle electrical stimulation, or apply moxibustion, herbs, or other techniques to treat the ailment.
Needles make me nervous. What kind of needles are used, and will I feel any pain?
Most Acupuncture needles are made of very thin, flexible stainless steel. They are inserted just below the skin. Patients sometimes experience a tingling sensation or heat, a sign that energy is flowing, but they do not typically fell pain. If you feel some discomfort, the Acupuncturist can usually adjust the needle to relieve the pressure.
Is Acupuncture safe and hygenic?
Acupuncture is safe and has virtually no side effects when administered by a professional, licensed practitioner. In fact, the national Institutes of Health has endorsed Acupuncture, particularly in combination with Western medicine.
Acupuncture is also extremely hygenic. The needles are non-toxic, disposable, and presterilized, and acupuncturists are required to follow all state regulations on medical waste and biohazards.
When will I start to see results?
Usually, patients see improvements immediately, and some conditions require only one visit. Acute conditions are often cured or alleviated in two to three visits, while chronic conditions may require five to fifteen.
How are Acupuncturists Trained?
Acupuncturists complete extensive, advanced professional and academic training in science and medicine. In California, they are required to complete a Master's degree from an approved school and pass a comprehensive state licensing exam, one of the most rigorous in the country.
Is Acupuncture covered by my insurance?
Increasingly, insurance companies cover Acupuncture because it is effective and often less costly than Western medicine. California State MediCal and Workers' Compensation both cover Acupuncture treatments.
Resources:
National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
American Academy of Medical Acupuncture.
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