Acupuncture Treatment
Acupuncture can be a very subtle, gentle healing modality in spite of the use of needles. This gentle healing process requires a series of treatments in order to set your body’s natural healing in action. Only safe, sterile and disposable needles are used for treatments.
WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncture is an ancient system of medicine 2,000-5,000 years old. It is based on the principle that the vital life force, “CHI” energy circulates throughout our bodies via specific pathways of energy called meridians. There are 12 main meridians, each associated with a specific organ and function. These pathways have been mapped throughout the body with specific locations of points along the meridians that allow access to the Chi with a needle. Stimulation of acupuncture points along the meridians helps restore the flow of blocked or imbalanced Chi within the body systems. It is helpful with treating pain, stress, chronic conditions and maintaining wellness. Needles used are prepackaged, sterilized and disposable. A technique known as moxabustion may also be used. This is the heat application of an herb called mugwort placed onto a specific point to enhance the flow of energy.
HOW LONG DO TREATMENTS LAST?
The first visit is about two hours in length. This allows for an extensive intake interview as well as an initial treatment. Subsequent treatments are one hour. There is a brief 10-15 minutes’ check in, then needles may be placed for 30- 45 minutes, point selection will be focused on constitutional support. The needle stimulation may be preceded by the application of moxabustion to the point, followed by the application of needles placed in and out in the time of a full breath. While the needles are in healing therapy, a gentle technique using hands to facilitate the flow of energy, may be implemented.
DO THE NEEDLES HURT?
A sensation unique to acupuncture is felt when the needle connects with the energy of a point. This is the feeling of Chi. Once the needles are in, this feeling should subside. If there is discomfort after the needles are in place, please let it be known and they will be adjusted. Often there is a state of relaxation during the session.
Sometimes the needle treatment may leave minor local tenderness or bruising, and redness / purple discoloration of the skin may occur with use the of moxabustion. These conditions can last for 1-7 days before resolving. Needle sickness (feeling light headed or nauseated), or broken needle are less likely and can be resolved by removing the needles at the time of the event.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I COME FOR TREATMENT?
A general energy balancing of about 5-7 weekly treatments is advise for the best results. Just as with gardening, the harvest comes after preparation and tending for several weeks. Then it is advisable to receive treatments seasonally for a “tune up” to help maintain wellness. Each person is unique and some may require more or less treatments to receive benefit. Some may experience a general feeling of well-being, improvement in mood, energy level, or sleep patterns, before the main symptoms begin to respond.
WHAT SELF-CARE CAN I DO?
It is recommended to drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily, eat well balanced meals, get restful sleep, allow for private quiet time and exercise on a regular basis. Avoid alcohol on the day of treatment.
HOW DO I PAY?
Payment is due on the day of treatment. Provider does not accept insurance payment, but a superbill can be provided for you to submit to your insurance carrier if requested.
If you are unable to keep an appointment, please call within 24 hours to reschedule. If an appointment is missed without 24- hour cancellation notice, a fee of $40.00 may be charged and due prior to the next scheduled appointment.