Q: Does acupuncture work?
A: Yes. Trials have proven the efficacy of acupuncture when treating a host of illness. Many critics believe this to be a result of placebo, and while this may be an obvious argument, many animal studies have discredited this theory.
Q: What can acupuncture treat?
A: Although most people associate acupuncture with treating pain, its range of healing ability goes much further. Through controlled clinical trials and clinical experience, acupuncture showed efficacy in treating conditions such as high blood pressure, infertility, insomnia, depression, and even side-effects from chemotherapy. To see a more complete list of conditions that can be treated by acupuncture according to the World Health Organization (WHO) refer to http://www.who.int/medicinedocs/library.fcgi
Q: Does acupuncture hurt?
A: No. Acupuncture does not hurt. We use the finest, sterile, disposable needles and employ gentle needle technique. However, needle insertion is often followed by a variety of sensations. These may include tingling, pressure, heaviness, distension, soreness, and warmth just to name a few. These sensations range from strong, through mild, to none. We want you to be as comfortable as possible, so please let us know about any discomforts you might experience.
Q: Why did we choose to be a community clinic? A: For acupuncture to be most effective, patients need to recieve it frequently and regularly, far more frequently and regularly than most insurance plans will pay for. As acupuncture has moved toward the mainstream, it has been forced into a paradigm of one-on-one treatments and high prices, which has decreased not only patient access but treatment efficacy. Community acupuncture clinics offer a sustainable alternative both for practitioners and patients. Community acupuncturists focus on using "distal" points (below the knee and elbow, and on the head and neck) so that patients can remain fully clothed during treatments.
Q: What should I expect from my first treatment?
A: The initial visit includes paperwork and a detailed consultation. We will ask you questions and perform tongue and pulse diagnosis. We want to find out about your health goals, give you information about your treatment plan, and answer any questions that you may have. We will then give you an acupuncture treatment and/or herbal recommendations.
Q: What should I expect on subsequent treatments?
A: After the initial consultation and treatment, subsequent treatments are streamlined to allow maximum time for treatment. We will monitor your progress by way of a simple follow up form that we ask you to fill out. In order to maintain the privacy of our patients, we minimize lengthy discussions in the treatment area. If you need more personal attention, please let us know so we can discuss your case in the consultation room, over the phone, or by e-mail. We firmly believe in monitoring your progress by goal setting and re-evaluation. Once needles are inserted, treatment lasts for about an hour. Please let us know if you have time constraints so we can keep you on schedule. And if you are so relaxed that you would like extra time, let us know and we will accommodate if we have the space.
Q: How many treatments do I need:
A: While we truly understand your need to know, it is almost impossible to give a general answer. There are many factors influencing amount of necessary treatments, such as duration of the condition, the severity, presence of other conditions, and individual constitution. That is why our first consultation is relatively lengthy. We try to fully understand your medical and personal history, your present condition, and your goals in order to tailor a treatment plan that is suited to you. We want to work close with you so that you feel comfortable and in control and be able to take an active role in your own healing process.