Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. It originated in China more than 2500 years ago. Acupuncture started gaining popularity in the United States in 1971, when New York Times reporter – James Reston wrote about how doctors in China used needles to ease his pain after surgery.
The term acupuncture describes a family of procedures involving stimulation of anatomical points on the body by a variety of techniques. The acupuncture technique that has been most studied scientifically involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation.
COMMONLY ADDRESSED CONDITIONS
- Pain
- Stress / Anxiety
- Smoking Cessation
- Weight Control
- Allergies
- Infertility
BENEFITS
- Safe and effective
- Drug-free
- Few side effects
- Treats the root of the symptom
- Complete treatment is undertaken, including mind and body
WHAT DOES ACUPUNCTURE FEEL LIKE?
Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently. Some experience minimal or no pain at all. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed.
Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the needle can cause soreness and pain during the treatment. This is why it is important to seek treatment from a qualified acupuncture practitioner only.
IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?
It is very safe. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles to be used by licensed practitioners in 1996. The FDA states that sterile, nontoxic needles should be used and to be labeled for ‘single time use’ by qualified practitioners only.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING MY FIRST VISIT?
During your first office visit, the practitioner may ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behavior. The practitioner will want to obtain a complete picture of your previous medical conditions and behavioral patterns for correct analysis.
ARE THERE ANY DOS AND DON’TS FOR ME ON THE DAY OF A TREATMENT?
Yes. To enhance the value of a treatment, the following guidelines are important:
- Do not eat an unusually large meal immediately before or after your treatment.
- Do not over-exercise, engage in sexual activity, or consume alcoholic beverages within 6 hours before or after the treatment.
- Plan your activities so that after the treatment you can get some rest, or at least not have to be working at top performance. This is especially important for the first few visits.
- Continue to take any prescribed medicines as directed by your regular doctor.
- Remember to keep good mental or written notes of what your response is to the treatment. This is important for your doctor to know so that the follow-up treatment can be designed to best help you and your problem.
WILL IT BE COVERED BY MY INSURANCE?
Some insurance companies currently cover acupuncture costs; other companies do not yet recognize the value of acupuncture.