Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can benefit from Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese medicine?
A: You can! Chinese medicine is exceptional at preventative health and treating chronic illness. Using acupuncture and TCM alongside Western medicine can help the body to heal faster after injury, recover more quickly from illness or to simply maintain its healthy state.
Q: Does acupuncture hurt?
A: The needles used for acupuncture are unlike those used for other medical procedures. They are very thin and are inserted gently and painlessly. The insertion site may feel achy or tingle; this is normal. Rarely do patients report feeling pain.
Q: What is the cost of treatment?
Q: What types of insurance are accepted?
A: Each treatment is individualized based on your symptoms, level of pain and medical history. Cash prices will vary from allowable Insurance coverage. I can only offer sliding scale if proof of income is presented.
A: I can submit claims for select medical insurance on your behalf. Worker's compensation, motor vehicle accidents and other injury related claims are also covered. If you are not sure whether or not acupuncture is covered by your insurance, check with your provider by calling the customer service number typically listed on the back on your insurance card. Some insurance companies may also require you to file a request for exemption or proof of medical necessity.
I do not accept Medicare or Medicaid.
Q: What can I do to prepare for my first visit?
A: Nothing! You will be asked to fill out a small amount of paperwork, including financial arrangements. Next, I will take a complete health history and discuss your symptoms, lifestyle and goals. Together we create a treatment plan suited to your individual needs.
Q: How many treatments will I need before I feel better?
A: It depends. Acupuncture is not a magic bullet; it takes time for your body to restore balance. Patients who have acute symptoms, like a headache or chest cold, may see relief after just one treatment. Most of the time, patients require several treatments over the course of a few weeks or months. A general rule of thumb is that the longer you have had a condition or the more severe your symptoms, the more treatments you will need.
Q: What can I expect after treatment?
A: Most patients feel extremely relaxed after treatment - some even sneak in a nap on the table. I advise patients to drink plenty of water after a treatment and to abstain from drugs and alcohol for at least six hours. I suggest scheduling followup before you even leave the clinic to be sure that you can get the appointment you need. If you have any questions regarding your recommended supplements or herbs, just call or email.
Q: Is acupuncture helpful even if I am not sick or injured?
A: Definitely! Acupuncture is a great way to maintain your health. Many patients come in monthly for "tune-ups," stress or immune support. Strengthening and supporting your body can help prevent illness and strain.
Q: What conditions can be treated?
Stress
Emotional
Distress
Depression
Anxiety
Insomnia
Smoking cessation
Addictions
Dizziness
Fatigue
Weight management
Dermatological
Acne
Scarring
Eczema
Rosacea
Keratosis pilaris
Wrinkles
Age spots
UV damage
Loss of elasticity
Comedones
Pain
Muscle and joint pain
Headaches
Nerve pain
Orthopedic
Pelvic floor
Sciatica
Arthritis
Tennis elbow
TMJ
Fibromyalgia
Respiratory
Asthma
Allergies
Cold/Flu
Pneumonia
Sore throat
Tonsillitis
Sinusitis
Rhinitis
Ear infections
Shortness of breath
Women's Health
Infertility
PMS
Menstrual disorders
Menopause
UTI
Incontinence
Hot flashes
Migraines
Weight loss
Chronic fatigue
Digestive
Nausea
Vomiting
GERD
Gastritis
Diarrhea
Constipation
IBS
Dysentery
Colitis
Crohn's disease