Acupuncture is a centuries-old Chinese method of healing. Today, by incorporating Western knowledge and techniques, acupuncture has developed into an acceptable and sought after scientific method of treatment for many common physical and psychological disorders. The more you understand about this amazing procedure, the more you will understand why this ancient form of healing is fast-becoming a sought after alternative to more conventional types of treatment.

 

Q: What is acupuncture and how does it work?
A: Acupuncture is a 5000 year old Chinese art of healing that involves the insertion of very fine, sterile, disposable needles into specific parts of the body. This technique stimulates and activates the body’s immune and healing systems.

 

Q: What is meant by holistic medicine?
A: Holistic medicine is a system that examines the whole pattern of illness that the patient demonstrates. This includes lifestyle, emotions, diet the balance of internal organs, and so forth. Holistic medicine does not treat only the symptoms, it treats causes as well.

 

Q: Does acupuncture hurt?
A: Generally speaking, no. Each individual is unique in their particular response to sensory stimulation. The most typical sensations are mild numbness, heaviness, distention and soreness.

 

Q: What disorders does acupuncture treat?
A: According to the World Health Organization, there are forty-seven specific disorders that are treatable by acupuncture. Although, through observation and experimentation we know there are more. The following are typical examples:

• Headache

• Back Pain

• Stress Management

• Arthritis

• Hernia

• Sports Injuries 

  • And others….

 

Q: Is acupuncture safe?
A: When practiced properly, acupuncture is extremely safe. In addition, acupuncture can work along with, as well as enhance your other medical treatments.

 

Q: What are the needles like?
A: The acupuncture needles used in this office are sterile, individually packed and disposable. The needles are disposed of according to OSHA standards.

 

Q: How often do I need to go for the treatment to be effective?
A: The number of visits depends upon the disorder as well as the general health of the patient. An acute disorder may only need one or two treatments. Chronic conditions require more. Two to twelve treatments is a common prescription for acupuncture.

 

Q: What other techniques to acupuncturists do?
A: Other techniques by acupuncturists include moxabustion, which is the application of heat, Chinese massage (tuina), exercise, diet, herbs and cupping.

 

Q: Where does herbal medicine originate?
A: Herbal medicine comes from plants, animals and minerals. The majority of herbs used in the United States come from plants. Approximately 80-85% of traditional Chinese herbs are indigenous only to China.

 

Q: What forms do herbs come in?
A: Herbs may be taken as tea, pills, tinctures and powdered extracts.

 

Q: How do herbs work?
A: Herbs are used to nourish deficiencies or sedate excesses in the body. In traditional Chinese medicine, herbs are the primary method of treatment.

 

Q: Why should I try Acupuncture?
A: If you have tried other methods of treatment and they have not worked…or if you are looking for an alternative method of treatment that does not require prescription medications, acupuncture may be right for you.

 

Q: How do I choose a qualified acupuncture physician?
A: The Department of Professional Regulation has strict standards for certification. You should choose a licensed practitioner with a large breadth of experience, hopefully one who has achieved a deep understanding of both Eastern and Western medical philosophies. As with any professional, check on training, affiliations and referrals. 

 

Q; Does insurance cover acupuncture?
A: Some insurance plans will reimburse for acupuncture but you must check with your particular company. Acupuncturists are considered primary care providers in the state of Florida.