Other acupuncture techniques include:
Moxibustion: This is done by burning some special herbs directly or indirectly above the skin to apply heat to an acupuncture point.
Cupping: Use of glass cups or a bamboo jar to create a vacuum action on the skin for the release of pathogens.
Tui-Na: This is the traditional Chinese style physical therapy or massage. It is used in conjunction with acupuncture to enhance treatment in a variety of muscular-skeletal conditions.
Herbs: is a comprehensive form of medicine that can effectively address a wide variety of conditions.
Is acupuncture safe?Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure when administered by a qualified practitioner (certified by national board, complete with strict regulations for proper needle sterilization). Practitioners use needles that are individually packaged, sterile and disposable so there is no risk of infection from the treatment.
Does acupuncture hurt?Acupuncture needles are hair thin, and many patients don’t feel the insertion. However, patients respond differently. In some instance warmth, tingling, heaviness, or a feeling of the Qi moving up and down the channels may occur (these sensations are normal and signify the treatment is working). Many people find acupuncture extremely relaxing and sometimes fall asleep during treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
An acupuncture treatment session usually takes half an hour. Treatments are scheduled as often as three times a week or as little as twice a month. Total number of sessions may differ due to the duration, severity and nature of your illness. For simple or acute conditions, you may only need a few visits, for complex or chronic conditions, multiple sessions a week for several months may be required.
Is Acupuncture for you?Acupuncture is extremely useful for pain management and a wide range of ailments. The World Health Organization has composed a
list of 43 different disorders which can be treated by acupuncture. The
US National Institute of Health recognizes acupuncture to be as effective as many conventional Western medical therapies. Therefore more than 1 million Americans receive acupuncture each year.
What to do the day of a session?DO use the restroom before your treatment.
DO continue taking any prescription medicines as directed by your regular doctor.
DO give your acupuncturist prompt feed back to your treatment so follow-up treatment can be designed to best help you and your condition.
Is acupuncture covered by health insurance?Acupuncture treatment is covered by many health insurance policies. However, some do not yet recognize the value of acupuncture. Call your carrier to determine your coverage.