Acupuncture

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient therapy system that uses needles to treat various diseases. It has been a component of traditional Chinese medicine for more than 4,000 years. It is a procedure that involves insertion of needles and stimulation of specific acupuncture points in the body to improve health. Acupuncture was formally introduced to the American population in the 1970s, and has become more popular over the past three decades.

How does it work?

Acupuncture is based on the concept that the body's energy, or chi, is circulated throughout the body via channels called meridians, which are named for some of the major organs. These channels govern the body functions and systems. The meridians direct energy up and down, left and right, front and back, and eventually complete a circuit. Interruptions to this energy flow, from factors such as injury, stress, depression or overeating, result in an imbalance that produces disease.

The Chinese believed that stimulation of selected acupuncture points would restore health by balancing the chi, allowing it to flow from areas that had an excess to areas that were deficient in chi. In order to restore this delicate balance, the practitioner inserts needles at specific acupuncture points. The improvement of energy flow can activate the autonomic nervous system.

One Western explanation proposes that acupuncture works by way of the “gate theory of pain.” According to this theory, stimulation (in this case, by acupuncture) is sent faster to the brain than a pain signal can travel, and the brain then “shuts the nerve gate” and does not let the pain signal in. Another theory is that the insertion of the acupuncture needle triggers a signal to the brain, and that the brain produces endorphins, which affect a person’s mood and are a natural pain reliever.

Who is a good candidate for acupuncture?

The National Institutes of Health recognizes acupuncture as a widely utilized and effective treatment. It may help patients who suffer from:

What is treatment like?

Acupuncture needles are very fine. You will feel a tap when the needle is inserted. When the needle is stimulated, you may feel only a tingle or a heavy sensation, which is energy flowing. Because endorphins are secreted during acupuncture, pain may decrease during treatment, and you may feel so relaxed you fall asleep. Occasionally, the restoration of energy flow energizes the patient.

What should I do before treatment?

Plan to arrive a few minutes early in order to relax. Please eat regularly. You should not have acupuncture on an empty stomach. Nor can we perform the procedure after you have been drinking alcohol or using drugs (prescription medications are permitted).You should also empty your bladder before treatment.

What can I expect after treatment?

Allow for a few extra minutes before you leave because you will be very relaxed and should take advantage of this. It is common to experience a tremendous sense of relaxation and calm. Some patients feel more energetic. Some people may be sore, as if a deep massage had been given. A few patients may feel cold and chilly.

You may resume your usual activities for the day including driving and work. It is preferred that you avoid heavy physical activities; however, you may choose to lift as a part of your job or work out as usual. Application of heat by shower, warm soak or heating pad is recommended. You may also use a muscle cream to help with any soreness.

How quickly does acupuncture work?

The effects of treatment are usually felt within the first few days but will vary widely. Acute conditions may see relief more quickly (after a few treatments), whereas those with chronic problems may need more frequent visits over a longer period of time to achieve the desired results.

If you are not noticing an improvement after a few treatments, the diagnosis and treatment plan may need to be re-evaluated and modified. Symptoms and signs may change after the initial assessment, requiring a modification in your treatment plan to achieve the best result for your problems. In some cases, noticeable effects may take longer. We will discuss your progress and re-evaluate you at every acupuncture session.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Each person responds to the sensation of needles differently. The needles are rarely described as painful, and can be adjusted if any discomfort is reported by the patient. During the insertion of the needle, a sensation may be experienced that can be compared to a mosquito bite or a pinch, and it should disappear quickly. Once the needles are adjusted, a mild sensation of warmth, heaviness, tightness, soreness, tingling, or electrical sensation at the acupuncture point (or along the meridian which it travels) may be felt.

Are there any risks?

Every year, approximately one million Americans receive acupuncture treatments. Adverse affects are rare. Effects that may occur and their frequency are as follows:

What are the contraindications for acupuncture?

Acupuncture might not be appropriate for:

Does insurance pay for acupuncture?

Acupuncture is generally not covered by insurances. Medicare does NOT pay for acupuncture, although Medicare does recognize acupuncture as an effective treatment modality. You should check with your insurance carrier to see if acupuncture is part of your coverage.

How do I schedule acupuncture?

The first visit is a routine physician’s office consultation or evaluation. This visit is covered by insurance. There will not be any acupuncture treatment during this visit. The purpose of this appointment is to talk to you and examine you to determine if acupuncture may be an option for you. Other treatment options will also be discussed, and your questions will be answered.

If you choose to proceed with acupuncture, a follow-up appointment and anticipated treatment schedule will be arranged. We will ask that you commit to at least four sessions before deciding whether treatment has had any effect on you. You and your physician will discuss and evaluate your progress at every visit. Modifications to the treatment plan, including changing the frequency of visits, may be made at these visits.