What are my treatment options?

• Acupuncture can be used to treat most conditions. Electroacupuncture may be used to treat some painful conditions and in the treatment of certain neurological disorders.
• Tuina (Chinese massage therapy techniques), Gwa Sha and Cupping are sometimes used alone and often in conjunction with Acupuncture.
• Chinese Herbal Medicine can be used alone or in conjunction with Acupuncture therapy, and is available in liquid extract and tablet form.
• Diet and Lifestyle Counseling is available.

How does Acupuncture work?

By facilitating the proper flow of Qi throughout the body, Acupuncture enhances the process by which energy supports both the body and mind. Acupuncture is used to guide and promote energy where and when it is needed, and to dislodge and disperse energy when and where it is stagnant.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

The Acupuncture needle is a very thin solid-body filament, not much thicker than a whisker. Most feel no pain during treatment. A feeling of heaviness or tingling may sometimes occur. The needles are sterile, disposable and used only once, then properly discarded. Acupuncture is safe and can be used in conjunction with many other therapies including western medical treatment.

How and why is Chinese Herbal Medicine used?

Chinese herbs can be used both internally and externally, to treat a broad range of acute and chronic injuries and illnesses. The herbs are almost always combined into thoughtfully structured formulas. They are formulated not only to reinforce their synergistic powers, but also to create a well balanced formula capable of producing dramatic results while minimizing the possibility of side effects. Many “classic” formulas (those created by well-renowned herbalists of the past) are widely available in pill and liquid extract form. Custom formulas can also be created in order to meet the specific needs any individual. Chinese herbs are safe to use when prescribed by a qualified practitioner of Chinese Herbal Medicine, even in conjunction with Western Medicine. However, not all herbs are appropriate for all patients or all conditions, and it can be unsafe to combine certain herbs with other supplements (herbal or otherwise), or detrimental to use certain herbs in order to gain short-term benefit. For these reasons, herbal supplements should never be self-prescribed. Herbal medicine should always be recommended or prescribed by a licensed practitioner who has devoted a significant amount of time to the study of Herbal Medicine. For additional information about Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine, please click on their respective links.

How many treatments will I need?

During an initial course of treatment, one may require frequent or aggressive treatment in order to alleviate symptoms quickly. As symptoms diminish and disappear, visits become less frequent. Acute or sudden conditions can often be resolved quickly. For chronic conditions, one should expect a longer course of treatment.

How much does it cost, and will my insurance cover treatment?

Presently, there is some insurance coverage available for Acupuncture. As the therapeutic value of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine becomes more widely accepted, coverage will expand. Please contact your insurance company to check your eligibility. Neither Medicare nor Medicaid offer coverage for Acupuncture. Initial Consultation and Acupuncture—average cost is $90
Follow-Up Treatment—average cost is $75
Visa and Mastercard are accepted. Expect your first visit to last about 1 and ½ hours, and about an hour for subsequent visits. One should not be too hungry or too full during acupuncture treatment.

What type of certification is needed to practice Acupuncture and Oriental medicine?

Over forty states have passed legislation pertaining to the practice of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (A&OM), and most states (including Florida) require NCCAOM certification as a prerequisite to licensure on the state level. NCCAOM certification requires over 2,000 hours of study in Acupuncture and Oriental Medical theory. Some states have made provisions for Medical Doctors and Chiropractors to practice Acupuncture with little or no study of Acupuncture, Oriental Medical theory, or technique. I strongly recommend that prospective patients seek Acupuncture and Oriental Medical treatment from an NCCAOM certified practitioner. For more information about educational standards and licensure, click on the Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine link.

What can Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine treat?

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is a complete system and can be used to treat practically any ailment. While most conditions can be effectively treated through its modalities, some are best treated using a combination of Eastern and modern Western medicines. The National Institute of Health and the World Health Organization recognize Acupuncture as being safe and effective in the treatment of a wide range of conditions. Below is a partial list of conditions treated by A&OM.

• Musculoskeletal Disorders, including neck, shoulder and back pain, joint pain and arthritis, unexplained pain and acute sprain and strain.
• Gastrointestinal Disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, acute or chronic constipation or diarrhea, nausea, indigestion, abdominal pain and bloating.
• Urogenital Disorders, including urinary tract infection, infertility, incontinence, and prostatitis.
• Gynecological Disorders, including irregular, heavy or painful menstruation, PMS, infertility and problems related to menopause.
• Respiratory Disorders, including sinusitis, allergy and asthma, bronchitis, chronic cough and common cold.
• Neurological Disorders, including headache/migraine, stroke residuals and neuralgia.
• Many Other Conditions, including insomnia, anxiety, hypertension, dizziness, low energy, and fibromyalgia.

Is Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine safe for kids?

Yes, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is safe and effective for children of all ages, and can be used for a broad range of conditions from common cold and flu to delayed development. A&OM is very effective for many common pediatric conditions such as earache, constipation, and bedwetting.