Frequently Asked Questions
How does acupuncture work?
The effects of acupuncture are complex. How it works is not
entirely clear. Research suggests that the needling process, and other
techniques used in acupuncture, may produce a variety of effects in the
body and the brain. One theory is that stimulated nerve fibers transmit
signals to the spinal cord and brain, activating the body’s central
nervous system. The spinal cord and brain then release hormones
responsible for making us feel less pain while improving overall
health. In fact, a study using images of the brain confirmed that
acupuncture increases our pain threshold, which may explain why it
produces long term pain relief.
Acupuncture may also increase blood
circulation and body temperature, affect white blood cell activity
(responsible for our immune function), reduce cholesterol and
triglyceride levels, and regulate blood sugar levels.
What does an acupuncturist do?
In addition to asking questions, the acupuncturist may want to
take your pulse at several points along the wrist and look at the
shape, color, and coating of your tongue. The acupuncturist may also
look at the color and texture of your skin, your posture, and other
physical characteristics that offer clues to your health.
You will lie
down on a padded examining table, and the acupuncturist will insert the
needles, twirling or gently jiggling each as it goes in. You may not
feel the needles at all, or you may feel a twitch or a quick twinge of
pain that disappears when the needle is completely inserted. Once the
needles are all in place, you rest for 15 - 60 minutes. During this
time, you'll probably feel relaxed and sleepy and may even doze off. At
the end of the session, the acupuncturist quickly and painlessly
removes the needles.
Acupuncturists trained in Chinese herbal
preparations may prescribe herbs along with acupuncture.
Are there different styles of acupuncture?
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) based acupuncture -- the
most commonly practiced in the United States, it bases a diagnosis on
eight principles of complementary opposites (yin/yang,
internal/external, excess/deficiency, hot/cold).
- Korean hand acupuncture -- based on the principle that the
hands and feet have concentrations of qi, and that applying acupuncture
needles to these areas is effective for the entire body.
- Auricular acupuncture -- this technique is widely used in
treating addiction disorders. It is based on the idea that the ear is a
reflection of the body and that applying acupuncture needles to certain
points on the ear affects corresponding organs.
How many treatments do I need?
The number of acupuncture treatments you need depends on the
complexity of your illness, whether it's a chronic or recent condition,
and your general health. For example, you may need only one treatment
for a recent wrist sprain, while a long-standing, chronic illness may
require treatments for several months to achieve good results.
Does my medical insurance cover acupuncture treatments?
Most Flex spending and Health Saving Accounts (HSA) reimburse for acupuncture. Some insurers cover acupuncture. You can usually find out by calling the number on your insurance card. We provide a “superbill” that provides all the information you need to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment,
call: 616.634.2714 or email
