Is acupuncture safe?
Yes! Only sterile disposable needles are used. Licensed acupuncturists are trained in their safe and effective use.
Do acupuncture needles hurt?
Acupuncture needles are thin, much smaller than hypodermics. Most people do not find the insertion painful. There may be a slight sensation, likened to a small pinch, on insertion. Once inserted there may be a sensation of tingling, distension or heaviness at the point or along the meridian. These sensations indicate the needles are working.
What can I expect?
In your initial intake, I will ask you many questions regarding your health history and current symptoms; followed by an examination of your tongue, palpation of your pulse and possibly palpation of various points on the body. From all this input I determine your Oriental Medicine diagnosis.
Treatments will include the insertion of ten or more needles, depending on the condition. In most cases you will be lying down on a padded table that allows you to relax. Depending on the condition adjunctive techniques such as electrical stimulation of the needles, craniosacral therapy, moxibustion or heat lamp may be used.
The needles may be placed on the extremities, head, back, or abdomen, as per the diagnosis. Loose comfortable clothing that can be rolled above the elbows and knees is recommended.
How many treatments will I need?
That depends on the nature, severity and duration of your condition. Acute conditions may require only a single treatment, more chronic cases may require from 5 to 15. A minimum of three to six is recommended.
Is Chinese Herbal Medicine safe?
Chinese herbs are given to a patient only after a detailed intake which allows me to determine your diagnosis. Herbs may be given as pre-formulated tablets or tinctures, or as an herbal prescription. The prescription is a mixture of herbs designed specifically for your condition, taking into account the severity of the illness and the strength of your constitution.
Recent concerns regarding the safety of Chinese herbal preparations focuses on commercial formulations, using Chinese herbs out of their correct context and at inappropriate doses. Self-administration of preparations containing Chinese herbs, without consulting a trained Chinese Herbalist, is not recommended.
Does insurance cover acupuncture?
Some insurance companies do cover acupuncture and the list is growing as acupuncture continues to rise in popularity. Currently, Balanced Life Healing does not directly bill insurance companies, and you will be expected to pay fully for your treatments. I will gladly provide a statement of payment to submit for insurance reimbursement.
However, acupuncture is a reimbursable treatment if you are covered by a Medical Flexible Savings Plan at your work. I will gladly provide a statement of payment for you to submit to your FSA plan.