FAQ
Frequent Questions
Find answers to common questions about our integrative treatments. We are here to help you understand how Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, and Health Coaching can support your journey toward lasting wellness.
How does acupuncture work?
This is the million-dollar question. From a Chinese point of view, acupuncture works by regulating the flow of energy ('qi') in the body.
A smooth flow of qi is synonymous with good health. Disease arises when qi flow becomes slow, stuck, or deficient to any part of the body. This disease can manifest as a physical problem, like joint pain or GI distress, or it can be a mental problem, like constant anxiety or chronic depression. In East Asian medicine, there is no boundary between physical and mental health.
Some people can live with this answer, others can't.
From a Western point of view, the research is still ongoing and points to many different causes. We know that acupuncture releases pain-killing chemicals and that it alters activity in the brain where the perception of pain occurs.
We know that inserting a needle promotes a local immune system response and a change in blood circulation. We know that the manipulation of a needle alters the tension in the body's network of fascia. And we know that inserting needles in specific locations can have different effects on the brain depending on where the needle is placed. Putting these effects together allows us to treat a wide range of conditions.
A smooth flow of qi is synonymous with good health. Disease arises when qi flow becomes slow, stuck, or deficient to any part of the body. This disease can manifest as a physical problem, like joint pain or GI distress, or it can be a mental problem, like constant anxiety or chronic depression. In East Asian medicine, there is no boundary between physical and mental health.
Some people can live with this answer, others can't.
From a Western point of view, the research is still ongoing and points to many different causes. We know that acupuncture releases pain-killing chemicals and that it alters activity in the brain where the perception of pain occurs.
We know that inserting a needle promotes a local immune system response and a change in blood circulation. We know that the manipulation of a needle alters the tension in the body's network of fascia. And we know that inserting needles in specific locations can have different effects on the brain depending on where the needle is placed. Putting these effects together allows us to treat a wide range of conditions.
What conditions does acupuncture treat?
Because of how it works on the nervous system, acupuncture is best suited for treating pain and mental distress. Acupuncture can help in some way for pain of nearly any cause or severity. Whether or not it can cure the pain depends on the specific condition. Also, because acupuncture helps turn off the fight-or-flight response, it can also be used for many conditions where that influence is strongly felt - think GI conditions, insomnia, autoimmune problems, and similar. There are also some treatments for very specific conditions, like breech presentation or facilitating labor, where acupuncture has a surprisingly effective role.
Acupuncture can help with most problems more than not, so if you have questions about a specific condition it is best to call & ask.
How long before I see results?
The answer to this question depends on what you are getting treatment for, how long you have had that particular problem, and the treatment method & frequency you are using. With most manual therapies, patients with acute issues often see lasting results within 2-3 treatments. More chronic conditions can take longer before sustained progress is noted. Age, lifestyle, and general health conditions play a role in this too.
Can I get acupuncture or take herbs while I'm on other medications?
Yes - acupuncture & herbal medicine often work better when used along with other therapies. Acupuncture does not interfere with any chiropractic or physical therapy work. It is also not a problem for patients on bloodthinning medications (ie coumadin or warfarin) as it is uncommon for patients to bleed when needles are removed.
Do you take my insurance?
Paul, our acupuncturist, is in network with Cigna, Harvard Pilgrim, Anthem, Ambetter, and Aetna. Please call your provider to determine if you have any acupuncture coverage as part of your benefits. Please note that insurance companies typically only reimburse for nausea or specific forms of musculoskeletal pain. If you have a different insurance provider that covers acupuncture, or if you have a flexible spending account or health savings account, we will be happy to provide you with an itemized receipt to send in for reimbursement.
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Whether you have questions about our natural therapies or are ready to begin your journey to wellness, we are here to support you with compassionate care.
Let us help you achieve the relief and peace you deserve.