FAQ's about Acupuncture
Can acupuncture help me?
Acupuncture can be helpful if you have a specific physical health problem or if you are in good health and are interested in health maintenance, personal growth, a greater sense of well-being, or in relieving stress.
Thousands of years of experience show that with ongoing treatment for maintenance and health promotion, you can reasonably expect to:
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Get sick less often
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Recover more quickly
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Increase vitality and stamina
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Improve your own health
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Improve relationships with others
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Reduce costs to overall healthcare
Acupuncture can help you live a more relaxed and enjoyable life by helping you experience an increased sense of peace and calm in your everyday life.
What about those needles?
Compared to the hypodermic needles used in Western medicine, acupuncture needles are much thinner; in fact they are only slightly thicker than a human hair. The needles used in our office are pre-sterilized, disposable and made of the finest quality stainless steel.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people are pleasantly surprised to find that acupuncture does not hurt. Needles are usually inserted just below the surface of the skin. Sensations vary from point to point and from person to person. People have reported having a variety of experiences. These experiences range from feeling a slight pinch followed by a brief ache, to others feeling a slightly longer lasting tingling sensation followed by a warming and heavy feeling. All in all people typically find treatment to be a deeply relaxing and centering experience.
Are there side effects from acupuncture?
It is very rare to experience side effects from acupuncture. Acupuncture is commonly used in conjunction with conventional treatments used in allopathic medication, psychotherapy, physiotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation, etc. Actually it is used successfully to alleviate the side effects of conventional treatments.
What is the relationship between acupuncture, and Western medicine or other holistic healthcare practices?
It is recommended that you continue to see your physician on a regular basis. Acupuncture is used successfully in conjunction with Western medicine. Traditional acupuncture is a specific therapy with its own rewards and limitations. A collaborative relationship with your health care providers is welcome. Your other healthcare professionals will only be contacted with your written consent. Altering medications or other therapies without consulting your physician or provider is not recommended. You should continue any prescription medicine exactly as directed by your physician. Acupuncture often helps your medication to be more efficient while decreasing unpleasant side effects.Chinese Medicine is focused with treating the whole person. It is particularly effective when used in conjunction with other health-promoting practices including but not limited to herbalists, doctors, chiropractors, therapists, massage therapists, and nutritionists.
How do I get the most out of my acupuncture treatments?
Please arrive on time or a few minutes early so that you can fill out any necessary paper work prior to treatment and to give yourself time to relax and settle down before your session. It is recommended that you wear or bring loose comfortable clothing to change into. Please eat a small light meal sometime before your treatment. If possible refrain from coffee, caffeinated tea or sodas before your treatment. Also, go without intense physical activity before or after your scheduled treatment.
What should I expect from my first acupuncture visit?
The initial acupuncture session lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes a traditional diagnostic evaluation. Your acupuncturist will sit down with you, asking questions and having a conversation with you to fully understand your reasons for coming in and to ascertain an energetic picture so that she can design the most effective treatment plan for you. Based on this evaluation, a treatment plan will be created for you and you will receive your first acupuncture treatment during the initial visit. What can I expect during my actual acupuncture treatment?Most people feel extremely relaxed. Many often nap during the acupuncture treatment. Typically people leave feeling vibrant and more energized.
What is expected of me after treatment?
Ideally, you should have a relaxed and easy day. It is best that you avoid strenuous exercise for at least 6 hours after you treatment.
What happens during my follow-up acupuncture visits and how many treatments will I need?
Subsequent acupuncture visits take about one hour and include a follow-up on your progress. Each treatment is customized to meet your evolving health patterns. The number of visits corresponds with your health concern, including whether your symptoms are of a more acute or chronic nature. Accordingly, some treatment plans may initially recommend as many as two treatments per week while others plans may recommend one treatment every 3-4 weeks or even just seasonally. In general, one treatment per week is recommended on average for 6-10 weeks before treatments begin to get spaced out. During your initial visit the treatment plan that makes the most sense for you will be explained.
Where do the acupuncture treatments take place?
The primary goal is to provide professional holistic health care. Treatments take place at the Greenspring Valley Healing Arts Center which maintains a quiet and professional healing environment. All treatments take place in private and peaceful treatment rooms. Only sterile, disposable needles and paper table coverings are utilized. Every effort and accommodation is made to ensure that your treatment is a serene, soothing and healing experience.
Are my treatments confidential?
Yes. All treatments remain confidential. Your professional interactions with Randi are protected according to federal law and (HIPPA) guidelines, just as it is when you see your doctor. You will be provided with avprivacy policy information sheet that will inform you of your privacy rights at your first visit together. Nothing that you say or share will be repeated outside of the treatment room without your written consent.
Is acupuncture treatment covered by insurance?
Most major insurance plans are accepted. If Transitions Acupuncture is not part of your plan: Many insurance companies will reimburse for acupuncture treatments. Please check with your insurer to ascertain the particular terms of your policy. Please note that full payment is due at time of service and insurance reimbursement from companies that we do not participate with is not guaranteed.
I want to get started with acupuncture treatments, what do I do next?
To schedule an appointment, contact Randi by phone at (410) 654-8997 ext. 1 or
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