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Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
In Chinese medicine, health is an ongoing process of maintaining balance among all the organs and systems of the body. Over 2000 years of history and experience has shaped acupuncture to its present form of the gentle insertion of thin, disposable, sterile needles at strategic points along the surface of the body.
How does Acupuncture Work?
Traditional Chinese Medicine views the body as having a series of pathways, called meridians, through which Qi (pronounced chee) or life energy flows. When the flow of chi is disrupted, symptoms occur. Chinese Medicine is based on correcting the flow of chi through the meridians.
Numerous studies have documented the positive effects acupuncture can have on many illnesses. Some studies suggest that acupuncture invokes an analgesic effect by somehow altering the body’s own natural pain-relieving opiate system. Another theory suggest that acupuncture may also activate the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, resulting in a broad spectrum of systemic effects, including changes in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and changes in the blood flow.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and National Institute of Health (NIH) both recognize the benefits of acupuncture for a variety of medical conditions.
What is the licensing procedure for an Acupuncturist?
All acupuncturists must complete a full course of undergraduate study at an accredited college or university with a focus on premedical studies which includes 60 credits in general biology, human physiology, and human anatomy. An accredited school of Chinese medicine is a 4-year masters program approved by the Committee on Acupuncture and includes a minimum of 1,350 hours of clinical instruction.
To be licensed in Massachusetts an applicant must pass the following:
a. National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) Comprehensive Written Exam
b. National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and OrientalMedicine (NCCAOM) Practical Exam of Point Location Skills
c. Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM) Clean Needle Course. In addition, 30 continuing education units are required every 2 years.
What Can I Expect From A Treatment?
Typically, an acupuncturist will begin by taking a complete health history. The practitioner will then do a comprehensive intake and exam, which will consist of asking numerous questions about your primary complaint as well as more general health issues. An acupuncturist’s physical exam may resemble a more conventional exam, but it will also include a more detailed examination and analysis of the pulse and tongue.
When the acupuncturist has arrived at a working diagnosis, he or she will insert thin, sterile needles into points on the surface of your skin. The needles will be left in anywhere from a few seconds to up to 40 minutes.
You will relax and lie still during the treatment. The acupuncturist may manually stimulate the needles. Some use electric stimulation, magnets, cupping and/or moxibustion.
Most patients feel a sense of deep relaxation while being energized at the same time.
What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?
You may feel a small pinch when the needles are inserted or nothing at all. Some people may feel a slight sensation of tingling or heaviness during the treatment. While many acupuncture patients are initially wary of the claim the acupuncture does not hurt, they soon discover that the experience is pleasurable.
What Does The Needle Look Like?
The needles are much finer than the familiar hypodermic needle. It resembles the thickness of a human hair. Unlike the hypodermic needle which is hollow inside, the acupuncture needle is solid.
The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes acupuncture needles as Class II medical devices for use by appropriately trained practitioners.
What Is Electrical Stimulation?
This is the application of a pulsating current to acupuncture needles as a means of stimulating the acupuncture points. It is especially useful in treating acute and chronic pain, or to promote healing after a fracture or surgery.
What Are Magnets?
One of the main uses for magnet therapy is as a “slow release” acupuncture or as an alternative to acupuncture for those who are afraid of needles- and those who dislike the sensation of acupuncture. Small magnets are used on selected points in the same way needles are used in a treatment.
What Is Cupping?
Cupping is an adjunct therapy that has been part of Chinese medicine for over 2500 years. It improves circulation, is good for various musculo-skeletal problems as well as respiratory problems like coughing and wheezing. The sensation may feel similar to a deep tissue massage and is completely painless.
What Is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion is another adjunct therapy which involves the use of the herb mugwort to facilitate healing. There are various forms of moxibustion. Moxa is used for its warming and strengthening qualities and to enhance treatments.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. Most health problems take more than one treatment to resolve. Many problems may require ten or more treatments before significant benefits accrue. Along the way, though, you may notice improvements in other areas of your health as your main complaint improves as well.
How Long Are Each Sessions?
Your first visit, or initial evaluation will take between 1 hour and 1.5 hours. Follow-up visits are usually about 1 hour based on the individuals needs.
Do I Have To Believe In Acupuncture For It To Work?
No. Acupuncture works whether or not you think it will. Acupuncture is even used successfully on animals and children. They do not understand or believe in the process yet they get better.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Usually not. As energy is redirected in the body, healing begins to take place. Occasionally the original symptoms may worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination pattern, or emotional state may temporarily occur. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. Many clients find that they are sleeping better, have less pain and more energy once starting acupuncture sessions.
What Should I Wear To An Acupuncture Session?
Loose fitting clothes that can be easily rolled up above your elbows and knees. Cotton gowns are also available. Draping is always used for your comfort and privacy.
Do You Take Insurance/Medicare/Medicaid?
No. Cash or checks only please. We will, however, gladly give you a receipt which you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
How Much Is An Acupuncture Session?
Initial Evaluation is $130.00. Follow-up visits are $85.00.
What Can Acupuncture Treat?
The following is a list of some of the more common conditions treated by Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture:
• Arthritis and Joint Pain
• Chronic and Acute Pain
• Fibromyalgia
• High Blood Pressure
• Infertility
• Irregular and/or Painful Periods
• Menopausal Symptoms
• Neck, Back and Knee Pain
• Stress
• Tennis Elbow (Lateral epicondylitis)
