Frequently Asked Questions

Questions & Answers about Chinese Medicine

1. Does Acupuncture hurt?
   Pain receptors are located in the superficial layers of the skin. Very fine needles are used and generally a slight pinch could be felt when the needle is inserted. The majority of patients however find the experience relaxing, pleasant and pain free and might even fall asleep during treatment.
   
   
2. How often do I need to come for treatments?
   The number of treatments and how often you need to get a treatment is determined by your own unique circumstances. If you are coming for an acute traumatic injury, for example, the practitioner might suggest three to four treatments a week for several weeks. If you are coming for a long time chronic problem, once a week for several months might be more appropriate along with guidance in diet, movement or even breathing. Still, other individuals that are in fairly good health may come every few months for what we call a tune-up to keep their energy balanced by alleviating minor imbalances and stress build-up.
   
   
3. Is Acupuncture appropriate for young children?
   Infants, toddlers & young children up to 10 yrs. old usually respond well to simple massage or acupressure, herbs and diet modifications; therefore acupuncture would rarely be used. Most of the time when young children get sick it's due to an immature immune system or poor eating habits. A cold or some other illness often serves to build immunity by activating the body's own natural healing ability (immune response). Herbs, massage and diet changes work to strengthen the immune system by gently assisting it's natural functions. This is different than medications that suppress symptoms. Children ten yrs. or older may benefit from acupuncture if food and herb therapy is not able to obtain the desired results.
   
   
4. Is Chinese medicine effective for senior citizens?
   Any combination of acupuncture, acupressure, herbs, dietary guidance, breathing and simple movement could be used to effectively treat digestive problems, pain & discomfort, constipation, trouble sleeping and many other symptoms that seniors may suffer from. In general, Chinese Medicine helps to improve the quality of life by increasing vitality and balancing the emotions.
   
   
5. Do you accept insurance?
   We accept insurance if it has been approved. If you have insurance, you will be asked to fill out a verification form and we will make a copy of both sides of your insurance card. The insurance manager will then call the insurance company to verify coverage. This means he will ask about the deductible, what procedures are covered by your plan and other pertinent questions. You will know on or before your second visit if your insurance plan will cover any of the procedures we do.
   
   
6. Does medicare pay for acupuncture?
   To date, as far as we know, they do not, however, the acupuncture organizations in this state are working on different levels to have acupuncture included as an accepted therapy for patients on medicare.