Common Questions about acupuncture:
Is Acupuncture covered by Health Insurance?
Some insurance companies do cover Acupuncture. You need to check with your provider to see if your policy contains a rider that covers this service. Generally Oxford, Empire Blue Cross / Blue Shield and GHI can provide acupuncture reimbursement plans. Acupuncture is also covered by no-fault insurance at no cost to the patient. No-fault is billed directly for all treatments.
How much training is involved in becoming an Acupuncturist?
Acupuncturists complete a minimum of five years of education and most possess a Masters Degree. Acupuncture school is a three-year program. The final year is a clinical internship. Minimum requirements to get accepted into a program are 64 college credits, 8 credits in anatomy and physiology, and 9 additional credits in the Biosciences. Most acupuncture colleges provide training in pathophysiology as well.
I am afraid of needles, does it hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very fine gauge filiform needles. Some needles you may not feel at all. There are a variety of sensations that may accompany an acupuncture treatment. If at any time you experience discomfort, it is important to let the practitioner know so the needle can be readjusted or removed. Your comfort is a priority.
What is an initial exam like?
The first visit is usually an hour and a half. It consists of a review of your chief complaint and a review of your past medical history. Many questions will be asked that will be used to develop an Oriental medical diagnosis. The Acupuncturist will take your pulse, look at your tongue and palpate your abdomen (Hara diagnosis) and groups of muscles if they are involved in a pain pattern. This is followed by a treatment. The needles are generally left in for twenty minutes.
What is a treatment like?
After the initial treatment, the follow up treatment is an hour and focuses on the present problem or complaint. The needles are left in for twenty minutes.
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What conditions respond well to acupuncture?
Acupuncture is used to treat a wide variety of medical problems including: pain syndromes, withdrawal symptoms, digestive disorders, neurological and muscular disorders, urinary, menstrual and reproductive disorders as well as emotional and psychological issues.
Are there any risks with acupuncture?
Acupuncture is relatively painless. To assure safety, we use sterile disposable needles. Side effects from acupuncture are minimal. It is possible to get a small bruise from a needle or to feel lightheaded following treatment. Sore soreness may also occasionally result. Most people feel an incredible sense of calm and balance after treatment.
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