How many treatments will i need?
Acupuncture treats you, as a whole, unique person in the context of your own individual environment. Therefore, the frequency and number of treatments can differ from person to person. Some people experience dramatic relief in the first treatment. For complex or long-standing chronic conditions, one to two treatments per week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required. An individualized treatment plan that includes the expected number of treatments will be discussed during your initial visit.
Our goal is to assist in bringing your body back into balance so that you feel optimally as quickly as possible, and you can go about your life. Regular monthly visits may be suggested as preventive measures to decrease stress, improve energy or boost immunity.
What will happen on my first visit?
For your initial consultation, we need to assess your general health. You will be asked about your current symptoms and any treatment you've received so far. It is also important to gather detailed information about your medical history and that of your family, your diet, digestive system, sleeping patterns and emotional state. The purpose is to identify what needs to be addressed in order to target your specific complaint, and to boost your overall vitality.
Stimulation of specific areas affects the functioning of various organs. However, those areas may not be close to the part of the body where you are experiencing a problem. For example, if you suffer from headaches, needles may be inserted into your foot or hand. There are over 365 specific acupuncture points on the body, and an unlimited number of non-specific points. We will use a small selection of these for each session. Often during the course of a few sessions, different points will be selected as the patient's condition changes.
do i have to receive acupuncture to be treated?
Absolutely not. Needles are just one way Acupuncturists communicate with the body. Other techniques, such as acupressure, Tui Na (Chinese medical massage), and non-insertive needling are particularly suitable for small children or for people with a fear of needles.
Additionally, the body can be treated entirely through herbal medicine. Be sure to ask us for a recommended herbal formula if you prefer not to be needled or if you are unable to come regularly enough to obtain desired results. Herbal medicine is a great stand-alone treatment or an incredible supplement to your acupuncture therapy.
What conditions can be treated with traditional east asian herbal medicine?
Chinese herbal medicine treats the full range of human disease. From acute illness like flu and the common cold or acute trauma and pain syndromes, to chronic disease such as: allergies, gynecological disorders, autoimmune diseases, chronic viral diseases, and degenerative diseases due to aging. Herbal medicine can also help to maintain or create balance and health before disease sets in.
Do you accept health insurance?
We do not accept insurance at this time, nor will superbills be provided for treatment since we offer time-of-service discounted rates. However, you are always welcome to use your HSA or FSA account to pay for treatment.