What does the examination/consultation involve?

An exam/consultation includes what you tell the practitioner about your medical history and what your body says: The appearance of the face, the body build, the shape and color of the tongue, the quality of pulse diagnostic, the feel of diagnostic areas such as the abdomen and back. An acupuncturist may test for weaknesses along the “meridians” and weaknesses in the muscles. Sometimes devices that measure electrical activity of acupoints may also be used.

What services can a practitioner of Acupuncture provide?

Acupuncture, Acupressure/Massage, Therapeutic Exercises, Herbal Medicine, Diet therapy, Breathing Exercises, Oriental Medical Diagnosis.

Do the needles hurt?

Most people who have had acupuncture would describe it as virtually painless or far less painful than plucking out a hair. The sensations range from nothing at all, to mild tingling, to slight numbness/achiness, to electrical pulsations in areas distant fom the site of insertion. All these sensations usually subside after a few seconds or once the needles are removed. The needles used for acupuncture are much smaller than the hypodermic needle, do not draw blood and are solid, not hollow. Finest quality stainless steel, pre-sterilized, single-use, disposable needles are used. Most often people feel very relaxed during treatment, and some fall asleep.

How long is the visit?

Usually the first visit is the longest in order to allow for a complete history taking and exam — typically an hour. Follow up visits are shorter, usually 15 to 45 minutes, depending on practitioner and patient needs. Sometimes other therapies, such as moxabustion, acupressure/massage and exercises are incorporated with the acupuncture treatment.

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We accept all types of insurance types including Worker’s Compensation and Personal Injury.

Commercial Insurance & Networks

• American Specialty Health (ASH)
• Landmark/Western Health Advantage (WHA)
• Aetna
• Blue Cross (PPO only and not connected with Blue Shield)