How does acupuncture work?
There are energy channels called meridians that come from each organ and travel throughout the entire body. Universal Life Energy such as Qi flows through these meridians to nourish and replenish every cell, tissue and organ in our body- as well as our mind and spirit! Specific points along these meridians are stimulated to either encourage the circulation of Qi to areas of the body that are stagnant, or to raise the strength of Qi in the areas that are depleted. The overall objective is to balance the bodily systems so that Qi energy may circulate and flow freely.
What can I expect on my first visit?
Everybody experiences the effects of acupuncture a little differently. Depending on the type of problem being treated, some people may start to notice the benefits almost immediately while others need a few treatments before they feel a difference. Some people become very relaxed while others may feel euphoric or energized. People who don’t feel any different when they leave the clinic may start to notice changes in their symptoms hours to days later.
Will my insurance cover the acupuncture treatments?
Most insurance plans do include Acupuncture as a covered benefit. You can contact your insurance provider to find out exactly what your benefits are or you can call us with your insurance information and we’ll be more than happy to check them for you.
How often after my first treatment do I have to come in?
Your physician will instruct you according to your condition.
Is it all right to see a different practitioner at Evolve Wellness?
Typically, you will be working with one provider. However, in the event of their absence, you will be referred to one of our other highly skilled practitioners. We work as a team here at Evolve Wellness and will always strive to provide you with excellent treatment.
How often after my first treatment do I have to come in?
It depends on your practitioner’s discretion. On average expect 45 – 50 minutes.
Does the acupuncture treatment hurt?
The treatment does not hurt, but we do want you to feel something as the acupuncture needle is inserted. You may feel tingling, numbness, and or “electric” sensations. This is the needle making contact with your Qi. After the initial stimulation, a pleasant “buzzing” sensation is felt, leading to deep relaxation. The needles we use are as thin as a human hair, and our technique is designed to be painless.
In addition to the acupuncture, patients are often treated with moxibustion (an herbal warming method), acupressure, and cupping. Patent herbal formulations are often recommended as well. Patients are given suggestions for self-care between appointments.
What are the needles like?
Acupuncture needles are as fine as a hair. They are stainless steel, solid, sterile and disposable.
Is acupuncture safe?
Very few side effects have been reported with acupuncture treatments using disposable needles. If needles are inserted properly, there is no risk to underlying nerves or organs. As with any type of treatment, you should always inform your practitioner of all medications you are taking as well as any underlying health conditions you may have or have previously experienced. You should also inform your practitioner if you are or could possibly be pregnant. Proper information recorded in your initial paperwork will help in the selection of the type of treatment that is right for you.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Acupuncture is used to alleviate many typical pregnancy-related complaints, including anything from nausea to sciatica. During each stage of pregnancy, there are certain points that should be used and others that should be avoided. Following these guidelines ensures safety of both the mother and the fetus.
Is it normal after an acupuncture treatment to get bruises or swelling on the area where the acupuncture needle was inserted?
Occasionally bruising or swelling may occur from an acupuncture treatment, simply apply pressure and an ice pack for 10-15 minutes. It does not negatively impact your treatment’s outcome.
Can I exercise or go back to work after my treatment?
Yes, you may return to your normal activities shortly after your treatment.
Can I take vitamins and other supplements while I take my herbs? Or will they conflict?
It’s generally not a problem as long as you take the supplements and the herbs at separate times.
Can I take my prescribed medication while I take my herbs? Or will they conflict?
We recommend that you don’t mix your herbs with prescription meds.
How is Asian medicine compatible with Western medicine?
Both Western and Asian Medicine have their respective strengths and weaknesses, that is why in modern China, the two systems are used together. When appropriately combined, the patient is well served. Asian medicine can work to compliment the benefits of western medicine.
In addition, Asian medicine can often reduce unpleasant side effects associated with prescription medicines. Licensed acupuncturists are also trained to recognize symptoms that indicate a need for a medical doctor or a specialist. A patient’s road to health is vastly shortened to the extent that she or he participates in their recovery.
We give our patients as much knowledge as we can about their condition in terms of Asian medical philosophy. Individual herbal remedies are often prescribed as an important part of the treatment. We discuss the contribution of diet and other lifestyle choices to the patient’s condition, and support efforts towards gradual changes that will improve the patient’s health. The patient may get additional “homework”, such as home moxibustion, acupressure, stretches, or simple Qi Gong exercises
What is acupressure?
Acupressure consists of pressing the acupuncture points in an attempt to help the free flow of qi energy in the channel. Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, but the practitioner uses their fingers instead of needles to work the point.
What is moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a heating therapy used to provide local heat over acupuncture points. It is made from the dried leaves of Artemisia Vulgaris and the Chinese believe that the older the Moxa, the better its therapeutic properties.
What is cupping?
Cupping is a therapy in which a jar is attached to the skin surface to cause local congestion through the negative pressure created by introducing heat in the form of an ignited material. It recruits red and white blood cells and stimulates blood flow to an area, allowing metabolism of nitrogenous wastes and thus reduction of stagnation.
What types of conditions is acupuncture most effective for?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified approximately 40 conditions that can be treated effectively with acupuncture. These include:
- Pain
- Infections
- Neurological and musculoskeletal disorders such as headaches, neck and back pain, sciatica, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, tendonitis, arthritis, neuralgia
- Anxiety, insomnia, addiction, stress
- Digestive disorders
- Respiratory disorders
- Skin disorders
- Cancers
How soon will I be better?
This is one of the most common questions we are asked. To provide you with realistic expectations, many factors affecting your recovery time must be taken into consideration, including:
- acute vs. chronic pain
- first episode or recurrent problem
- history of previous injuries
- general health
- general fitness level (includes strength, flexibility and cardiovascular health)
- poor postural hygiene
- lifestyle (work, diet, sleep)
- patient comprehension and compliance with recommendations
- kept appointments
- stress (physical/mental/chemical)
- family history
These factors and your individual health goals combine to structure the frequency and duration of your care.
Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
No you don’t. Although the Placebo effect is not to be disregarded in any type of treatment, when your body completely relaxes (you might be surprised just HOW relaxed acupuncture can help you become), you are automatically in the best state for healing to occur. Acupuncture works very well in healing both simple and complicated disorders, but for stress, tension and stress-related illnesses, it functions optimally with regular treatments.