ACUPUNCTURE What is traditional Chinese medicine?
Traditional Chinese medicine is a 2000 year-old healing practice which looks at the patient holistically. In a healthy body, vital energy called qi, flows freely like a river. Pain and disease arise when there is an imbalance caused by too much qi (excess), not enough qi (deficiency) or stuck qi (stagnation). Acupuncture regulates the flow of qi to return the body to a state of balance. It not only treats symptoms, but the root cause of illness as well. Chinese medicine can work in conjunction with or be an alternative to Western medicine.

What can be treated with acupuncture?
Although acupuncture is touted for its effects on chronic and acute pain, it actually treats a wide array of ailments including: acne, addiction, allergies, asthma, anxiety, depression, common cold, diabetes, diarrhea, gastro-intestinal issues, fatigue, fibromyalgia, headaches, heartburn, impotence, infertility, insomnia, menopause, menstrual cramps, post-surgery, sinusitis, skin disorders, smoking cessation, stress and weight control.

What should I expect on the first visit?
After you fill out your medical intake form, the practitioner will ask you a series of questions specific to your condition and also about your general health. She will look at your tongue and feel your pulse (the major diagnostic tools of Chinese medicine) in order to determine your Chinese pattern, or diagnosis. She will choose usually 12-20 points for acupuncture. The needles stay in for about 30 minutes. Once the needles are removed, your acupuncturist will perform any accessory modalities that are appropriate for you such as cupping, guasha  (muscle manipulation with a smooth tool), electro-stimulation, Tui Na (Chinese massage), ion pumping cords, moxibustion (heating of acupuncture points), topical liniments, ear seeds/magnets. You can also discuss whether you are a candidate for Chinese herbs.

Does it hurt?
Many people barely feel the needles as they are inserted. On some of the most powerfully active points, there may be a slight pinch, which subsides almost immediately. Once the needles are in, you might notice a tingling or gentle sensation around the area that feels like water trickling. This is called “arrival of qi” and affirms the therapeutic effects of the acupuncture. Most people feel very relaxed during the treatment and energized afterwards.

Where do you put the needles?
Acupuncture needles are usually inserted on "channels" or "meridians" on the arms, legs, torso and head. These meridians flow like rivers carrying energy and blood through the body's landscape.

How deep are the needles inserted?
Needle depth varies with each point. Some points on the hands and feet may only be needled at a depth of 0.5 cm. Points on the upper thigh and buttocks may go as deep as several inches.

How many treatments will I need?
That depends on the duration and severity of your ailment. Acute disorders may clear up after two or three sessions. Chronic diseases may require a longer course of treatment, such as one visit per week for 3-6 months.

Do you re-use the needles?
The needles are single-use, sterilized, stainless steel. They are disposed of and new needles are used for each treatment.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
Insurance companies in the Midwest are increasingly covering acupuncture. We would be happy to check your benefits for you. You can use Flex Spending dollars toward your acupuncture treatments, and discounted treatment packages are also available.