Got questions? Here are some answers to the most common questions here. If you still need advice, call
WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncture is a vital part of Chinese medicine, one of the oldest known systems of health care. It regulates the body’s ability to heal through the precise stimulation of different “points” with a very fine needle, about the width of human hair. The results include specific and measurable chemical, electrical and functional changes. Acupuncture effectively treats a wide array of disorders and catalyzes total systemic wellbeing.
IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. Research has shown acupuncture to be 99.8% free from even minor adverse effects (Acupuncture Safety Information).Our experience, training and research ensure you are being given the best care possible. Your safety and well being is our primary concern. We use the highest quality disposable equipment available. To ensure thorough integration of all that medicine has to offer, we work closely with the rest of your medical providers.
ARE YOUR NEEDLES DISPOSABLE?
Absolutely! We use needles only once. Following clean needle technique with tiny sterilized needles makes the risk of infection extremely small. One of acupuncture’s greatest achievements is its incredible safety record giving the utmost respect for the age-old adage, “Do no harm.”
WILL ACUPUNCTURE WORK FOR ME?
The human system is highly variable, even among those with similar diagnoses. Therefore we let patients know what they can expect on a case by case basis. We will do our best to give you an honest and accurate prognosis as we know this information can put you at ease emotionally and financially.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN DURING THE FIRST VISIT?
You can expect to spend one hour with the acupuncturist discussing your case and receiving treatment. Chinese medicine is holistic; meaning everything in the body is interrelated like strands in a spider web. You may be surprised at the amount of time we can offer you for Q and A. We acknowledge that this is an important part of the healing process and cannot be rushed.
IS THIS A CURE OR TEMPORARY “BAND-AID”?
Acupuncture does not cover up your symptoms. It relieves them. Acupuncture does not have the reputation of transitory symptom management. Our results normally outlast the treatment cycle.
ACUPUNCTURIST OR CHIROPRACTOR THAT PRACTICES ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncturists are specialists, honing their techniques over 3-4 years of careful study and application on thousands of patients. We also have full benefit of 3000+ years of shoulders to stand upon, having been trained in sophisticated diagnostics and the unique mindset of Chinese medicine. Licensed Acupuncturists are trained 2500-3500 hours, whereas chiropractors, trained similarly for their licenses, are only required 100 hours of training to practice acupuncture, making Minnesota one of the most lenient states in the country for this dual licensing. With this in mind, chiropractors cannot legally treat a patient solely with acupuncture, but “may utilize acupuncture to prepare for or complement a chiropractic adjustment.” Even though acupuncture carries little risk, not getting expert care from a licensed acupuncturist may simply be a waste of time or risk chronic persistent disease through ineffective care.
WILL INSURANCE PAY?
Insurers are increasingly paying for acupuncture because of its cost-effectiveness in treating a variety of symptoms. Please check with your insurance company to see if acupuncture services are covered and notify us when you come in for your first appointment.
WHAT ABOUT CHINESE HERBS?
Herbs are an essential part of Chinese medicine. We will prescribe herbs if needed based on your specific disease pattern. Chinese herbology is highly individualized and requires a great amount of sophistication to practice effectively. We use the safest and the highest-quality formulas available. All of our products have been tested and meet the strictest biological and environmental standards.
About this article:
This article was re-posted by Dr. Josh Eha, DAOM, L.Ac, C.SMA from his blog on Midwest Specialty Acupuncture, during his time as an educator on TrailheadHealth.com. We thank him for his participation and expertize.