Frequently asked questions
what to expect | notice of privacy practices
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. Many insurance policies cover acupuncture. We are happy to look into your related benefits. To verify your coverage please call, stop by or click here.
Who can benefit from treatment?
Patients of acupuncture range from infants to the elderly. They may be seeking an alternative to Western medicine or it may be their last hope for relief, having exhausted other methods of treatment for a chronic condition. Often an acupuncturist may be an individuals first choice of health care practitioner for a low-risk form of treatment with no serious side effects.
How long is a typical acupuncture session?
The initial visit generally runs ninety minutes in length, as a detailed medical examination and history are conducted. Follow up sessions are thirty minutes to one hour.
Who is qualified to practice acupuncture?
To qualify for licensing in California, individuals must meet specified educational requirements and pass a comprehensive State licensing examination. Once licensed, acupuncturists are required to renew their license every two years and complete continuing education as a condition of renewal. In 1979 California was the first state in the nation to recognize qualified practitioners as primary health care physicians.
Why does pain or ill health present in the body?
Pain and ill health result when the flow of Qi through the body is disrupted or blocked. This can be caused by many things, including disease, pathogens, trauma/injuries, and medication (side effects), as well as overwork, poor diet, emotions, lack of rest, and stress. Stimulation of the appropriate acu-points through acupuncture treatment helps to restore sufficient, continuous, and even flow of Qi and other nutrients throughout the body, restoring health and balance to the body while relieving pain and other symptoms.
What are acupuncture needles like?
Modern acupuncture needles are stainless steel, and are between one-half and three inches long, ultra-fine, and quite flexible. They are pre-sterilized, non-toxic, and disposable (single-use). Needles are typically placed in several acu-points and left in about 20 to 40 minutes.
How many treatments are generally recommended?
The number of treatments needed depends upon the duration, severity, and nature of your health condition. Two or three treatments may be sufficient for an acute condition, while a series of five to 15 treatments may be needed to resolve chronic conditions. Some degenerative conditions may require ongoing treatments over a long period of time. We offer a free consultation to provide us an opportunity to talk with you in greater depth and create a personalized treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
Please don't hesitate to contact us with any additional questions that you may have.
