How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture works to effectively increase blood flow to targeted areas. Through increasing blood flow we can improve health, since blood carries critical components to every cell within the body. It is used to treat illness, prevent disease, and improve well-being.
Scientific research suggests that acupuncture works by stimulating the central nervous system to release chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals either change the experience of pain or cause the release other chemicals, such as hormones, that influence the body's self-regulating systems.
Today, the art and science of Acupuncture is not fully understood from a Western perspective, yet it continues to gain popularity and acceptance because of one fact - IT WORKS...
Theory
According to Chinese medical theory, Qi (translated as air, or oxygen) and blood run through the body in regular patterns called channels or meridians. The meridians function as a transportation system where by they nourish the body and regulate it’s function.
To better visualize the concept of Qi, blood, and the meridians, think of the meridians as a river-bed, over which water flows and irrigates the land; feeding, nourishing and sustaining the substance through which it flows. (In Western medicine, the concept would be likened to the blood flowing through the circulatory system.) If a dam were placed at any point along the river, the nourishing effect that the water had on the whole river would stop at the point the dam was placed. The same is true in relation to Qi, blood and the meridians. When the Qi and blood becomes blocked, the rest of the body that was being nourished by the continuous flow, now suffers. Illness and disease can result if the flow is not restored.
Acupuncture is one tool used to restore the normal flow of Qi and blood in the body, by inserting needles into the acupuncture points (located on the meridians) any residing blockages, or dams, are cleared, thus freeing the river to better feed the body in its entirety. If detected early, organ malfunction and blood and /or Qi stagnation may respond well to Chinese Medicine with an excellent chance for a complete recovery.
Is Acupuncture painful?
Acupuncture needles are very fine and are typically 25-50 times thinner than the hypodermic needles used by physicians. Unlike a hypodermic needle, acupuncture needles are solid, and therefore only push tissue aside during insertion, instead of cutting tissue. For this reason, acupuncture needle insertion is practically painless. Often people are not even aware that the needles are in place. During their first acupuncture treatment, the vast majority of people respond with relief by saying, “Oh! That's it?”. Once the needles are in place, some people experience a feeling of warmth, heaviness, pressure, or tingling. Acupuncture tends to be very relaxing and many people fall asleep during treatments.
Are the needles reused?
No. For your safety, only sterile and disposable needles are used.
Does medical insurance over Acupuncture treatment?
An increasing number of insurance companies are now covering acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Check with your insurance provider prior to your treatment to find out if your policy covers acupuncture, and the specifics of coverage.
Upon request I provide my patients with an invoice called a Superbill. A Superbill uses standardized codes for the treatments performed and is to be submitted to your insurance company for full or partial reimbursement of the cost of your visit, depending on your policy.
Cost of treatment is due at the time of service.
How many treatments do I need?
Many conditions can be alleviated very rapidly with acupuncture and Chinese herbs. Chronic illnesses typically take longer to treat, where as acute problems generally respond much faster. As with any from of medical care, the patient’s diet and lifestyle will affect the outcome and course of treatment.
How can I prepare for my first acupuncture treatment?
It is best to eat a light meal or snack before your treatment. Sometimes a person who has not eaten may feel lightheaded during or after an acupuncture treatment. Wear loose clothing so that your arms and legs below the elbows and knees, as well as the abdomen, are accessible. Do not engage in strenuous activity, drink alcohol, or ingest heavy meals before or after your treatment.
How can I improve treatment results?
It is vital to follow these guidelines:
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1)Come to your appointments.
2) In order to get full treatment, you must be on time.
3) Do not submerge in water (e.g. shower, bath, hot tub, etc.) for at least 12 hours after Acupuncture.
4) If healing reactions occur while under Acupuncture care or while taking Chinese Herbal Medicine, we highly recommend calling and informing the office of specific body reactions.
(805) 765-1059
“Learn How Acupuncture Can Work For You.”