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Acupuncture FAQs

First-timers, we bet you have questions. We have answers and here are some of the most asked queries.

What exactly is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an effective and complete medical system that is more than 2,500 years old. It involves the insertion of very thin (hairlike) needles at strategic points on your body. This activates the body’s energy system (Qi) and enhances your body’s ability to heal. Traditionally, acupuncture has been used to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease, as well as to improve general health. It is a safe, painless, and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical conditions.

What should I expect on my first visit?

Your initial visit is a telehealth appointment. Upon completing your comprehensive intake forms, Dr. Iona will review your health history in detail and answer any questions that you may have. After that, your first in-office appointment will include a physical assessment according to Chinese medicine. With each subsequent treatment, we will assess your symptoms and progress through questions and answers, pulse and tongue diagnosis, and palpation of various points on your body.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Typically, no. At most, you will experience a slight sensation or awareness that is fleeting and only last a few seconds. Studies have shown that acupuncture can cause your body to release natural opiates, which explains the feelings of wellbeing and relaxation you feel after a treatment. Needles placed in specifically selected acupoints help the nervous system release chemicals. This release can either change your experience of pain or trigger a cascade of chemicals and hormones that help regulate the body’s own internal healing system. Most patients leave our treatment rooms feeling relaxed and “floaty.”

How long will the needles remain in place?

Treatment length varies depending on several things including your constitution and what you are seeking treatment for. Most patients find the treatment so relaxing that they often fall asleep.

How many treatments will I need?

Unfortunately, there is no set answer to this. The number of treatments fluctuates by individual and a variety of factors including your condition, your constitution, how long the condition has been present, your lifestyle factors, and more. Some patients feel relief after the first treatment or two; others take longer.

Does my insurance cover acupuncture?

We recommend that you call your insurance company directly to inquire as to whether you have acupuncture coverage for the condition you are seeking help with. Though you may have acupuncture benefits, not all conditions are covered by insurance. Here, at Healing Points, we are considered an out-of-network provider. Some insurance companies offer out-of-network benefits once your deductible is met. If you have out-of-network benefits, our office will supply you with a Superbill that you can submit directly to your insurance company for any eligible reimbursement.

What does acupuncture treat?

According to the National Institute of Health and the World Health Organization, acupuncture has proven effective in the treatment of many common problems including:

  • Addiction
  • Allergies
  • Anxiety
  • Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Autoimmune Disorders
  • Back Pain
  • Bronchial Asthma
  • Bronchitis
  • Cancer Care
  • Carpal Tunnel
  • Chronic Fatigue
  • Common Cold
  • Constipation
  • Depression
  • Diarrhea
  • Dysmenorrhea
  • Endometriosis
  • Fertility
  • Gut Health
  • Headache and Migraines
  • Insomnia
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • Muscle Pain
  • Muscle Pain
  • Neck Pain
  • PCOS
  • PMS
  • Sciatica
  • Sinusitis
  • Sprains and Strains
  • Women’s Health Issues
  • And Much More!

3 Tips for Your Acupuncture Treatment

To make your first sesh a breeze, check out our top three tips. And this Golden Rule: Acupuncture is YOU time–time to rest and reset. All the work calls, zooms, PTA meetings, and errands will get done…LATER.

1

EAT A LITTLE SOMETHING

Have a light meal an hour or two before your treatment. Acupuncturists work with your Qi (energy), so having nutrition and energy provides something for your body to work with.
2

GET COMFY

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. We always provide a gown. However, if you don't want to change, loose pants or shorts that can go above the knees mean we can get to many commonly used acupuncture points on the lower arms and legs, back and abdomen.
3

TURN IT OFF

Save the phone for later. Acupuncture works with the flow of your vital energy so it's best if you can clear your brain cache and relax for the treatment.

Tune In To Your Body and Mind

It is important to remember that acupuncturists are trained to treat not only the symptoms but the root causes, which can help you make changes on deep fundamental levels of your being. In addition to balancing your internal processes and helping your natural energy flows get back in sync, an acupuncturist can also offer suggestions for your diet and lifestyle that may help you make the changes you want to see in your life.