Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a powerful healing therapy that originated in China more than 5000 years ago as one of the most important components of Chinese medicine. It is most commonly practiced by inserting fine needles at very precise acupoints. These points may also be stimulated through other techniques such as acupressure, cupping, moxibustion, electric stimulation and laser application.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture treatment is based on a philosophy that promotes balance and harmony in the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of human beings. It is believed that illness is caused by energy imbalance in the organ systems and meridian systems. By stimulating the specific acupoints, it works to regulate the Qi (vital life energy) flow through the meridians (energy pathway), therefore to correct the imbalance and restore health.

What Are the Advantages of Acupuncture for Pain management?

Modern scientific studies show that stimulation of acupoints enhances the production of certain chemicals and hormones in the body, such as endorphins, the natural pain-blocking chemicals. Therefore, acupuncture is a natural, drug-free way to minimize pain. It would not develop a tolerance, or the need for an increased dosage to achieve the same required effect. In addition, acupuncture allows the practitioner to immediately examine a patient's response to the treatment and adjust it accordingly.

Are the needles clean?

The use of acupuncture needles is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which classifies the acupuncture needle as a Class II medical device. Longevity acupuncture uses only disposable, sterilized, individually packaged needles.

How safe is acupuncture?

Acupuncture treatments are safe, drug free, and free of many side effects and dependencies associated with medication. Informing your acupuncturist of current medications, pregnancy, cardiac pacemaker use, or cosmetic implants will ensure the most effective and personal treatment.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine and flexible. Most people do not suffer discomfort when they are inserted. When Qi is induced, a sensation of tingling, heaviness, numbness, dull ache, a mild electrical impulse, or a slight flow of energy may be felt either at the acupoint or along the meridian channel. These sensations are normal and are called “De Qi,” (arrival of Chi). Because each person and treatment is unique, each acupuncture experience is unique. Some people, as well as some acupoints, have more sensation than others. Acupuncture treatments should be comfortable, and communicating your comfort level to your practitioner will ensure the most effective and enjoyable treatment. The most common experience during treatment is deep relaxation.

Is there anything I need to do while receiving a treatment?

Yes, the following suggestions will help you get the maximum benefits from your treatment.
• Trust is essential for those who fear needles. Know that you are in charge at all times and that the practitioner deeply respects your sensitivity as a path to healing.
• Relax and ask questions. Being informed will help to ease any fears and promote a more beneficial treatment.
• Do not change your position or move suddenly. If you are uncomfortable, tell your practitioner. Your practitioner will make the proper adjustments or stop the treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments required will vary depending on the duration, severity, and nature of each complaint. No two conditions or people respond exactly the same. In general, acute conditions require fewer treatments and some chronic or degenerative conditions may require more treatments over time.

How to get the most out of the Treatment?

For the best treatment result, keep a few things in mind:
• Please show up on time
• Don’t eat a large meal before your visit
• Wear loose, comfortable clothes
• Refrain from overexertion, drugs or alcohol for at least six hours after treatment
• Follow your treatment plan between visits
• Keep all of your appointment, as each visit builds upon the previous ones.

Will my insurance cover acupuncture treatments?

An increasing number of insurance providers now provide different medical plan coverage for acupuncture treatments. Please fill out Insurance Verification Form and email it back to us upon completion. Our office is able to assist you to verify your plan coverage.

How are practitioners trained and licensed in the US?

In the United States, the regulation of health care practice differs from state to state. Most practitioners of Chinese medicine are licensed or certified as acupuncturists by their state Department of Regulatory Agencies. Standards to practice acupuncture safely and effectively have been established by The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). Practitioners who follow their names with the abbreviations Dipl. Ac. and Dipl. C.H. , Dipl.O.M. are nationally board certified in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and Oriental medicine respectively.