DOES IT HURT?

When the needle is inserted, the patient often feels nothing or a slight pinch. This usually subsides after insertion. After the needles are in, the sensation varies widely from either nothing to a gentle tingling or more intense feelings.

IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?

Yes. We use only single-use sterile, nontoxic disposable needles. In addition to being free from side effects commonly found with drug therapy, acupuncture is simple, safe, and effective at treating a wide range of illness.

WHAT DOES ACUPUNCTURE FEEL LIKE?

People experience acupuncture differently. Some people are energized while others report a sense of well-being and relaxation during and after treatments. Acupuncture needles are very fine, about the diameter of a couple of hairs. They are inserted quickly to avoid any sensation of pain.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN ACUPUNCTURE SESSION?

During the initial visit, which normally lasts 1-1/2 hours, a full consultation and treatment will be performed. We will ask you questions regarding your medical history, diet and lifestyle. We may also press acupuncture points looking for tenderness.

The actual acupuncture treatment is very comfortable with minimal needles. Many people report an endorphin reaction and a feeling of rejuvenation and relaxation during and after the session. The room is made to be a comfortable temperature for each patient and there is soft music or headphones as an option. We offer aromatherapy during the visit and leave the patient to relax for 20-45 minutes.

Follow-up visits normally last about 45-60 minutes and are typically scheduled once a week. Although all cases are different and unique, generally patients will begin to achieve results after 1 to 6 treatments.

WHAT CAN ACUPUNCTURE TREAT?

While most people are familiar with the use of acupuncture for pain control, it also treats a variety of other acute and chronic conditions, both mental and physical. Some common disorders that acupuncture can treat successfully are:

Pain: headaches, neck and shoulder problems, back pain, sciatica, osteoarthritis, bursitis, tennis elbow, trigeminal neuralgia, carpal tunnel, spasms, sports injuries, temporal mandibular joint disorder (TMJ), tooth pain, migraines.

Stress: sleep disorders, stress related problems, low energy, emotional imbalances.

Digestive: abdominal pain, acid reflux, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, colitis, ulcers, gastro-esophageal reflux.

Respitory: allergies, common cold, sinusitis, cough, asthma.

Women’s Health: PMS, painful menses, menopause, hot flashes, night sweats, infertility, irregular menstruation.

Cardiovascular: hypertension, palpitations, poor circulation.

Autoimmune: rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue, lupus.

Addictions: nicotine, alcohol, over-eating.

Skin Conditions/Cosmetic Acupuncture: This healthy technique improves skin tone, adds color, and helps skin to be less thin and dry. It improves the overall health and look of the skin while keeping the character of your face. It is also treats acne and rosacea.

Weight Issues: Acupuncture is effective in improving digestion, decreasing stress and increasing energy. This will help increase metabolism, decrease food cravings and overeating, while increasing a person’s vitality and stamina for physical exercise.

CAN ACUPUNCTURE TREAT CHILDREN AND TEEN-AGERS?

Yes. Acupuncture is effective in the treatment of children and teen-agers. Children and teen-agers are treated for many of the conditions listed above, including common colds, digestive problems, sleep disturbances, urinary problems, headaches, acne, emotional problems, and menstrual difficulties.

HOW DOES CHINESE DIAGNOSIS WORK?

In Chinese Medicine we are often able to tackle many problems at once while also focusing on the root of the problem. Chinese diagnosis is based on the idea that external signs and symptoms reflect the condition of the internal organs. Over thousands of years Chinese Doctors have developed this very sophisticated system of correspondences between outward signs and internal imbalances. It is not a replacement for the precision of western medical tests but it can be extremely helpful in revealing the root of an ailment which is shown from a pattern of disharmony in the body.

HOW CAN CHINESE HERBS HELP?

Chinese herbs are an optional complement to acupuncture treatment that provides additional nourishing support. They are most effective when prescribed by a Licensed Acupuncturist. Herbs may come in pill, powder or dry bulk form. Herbal compounds typically involve the combination of 2-12 natural Chinese medicinal herbs individually selected based on one’s constitution, environment, and medical condition. Some example treatments would be for menstrual cramps in combination with insomnia, or for abdominal bloating and irritability in combination with acid reflux.

WHAT FORMS OF CHINESE HERBS ARE THERE?

Traditionally Chinese herbs were originally only available in dried form and had to be boiled for many hours to release their active ingredients. However, modern advances have lead to natural methods of extracting the active ingredients so that herbs can be prescribed in more palatable forms such as pills and freeze dried granules.

WHAT DOES LOOKING AT MY TONGUE TELL YOU?

The tongue is highly vascular and contains many important taste receptor cells. It is richly supplied by both the nervous system and circulatory system. Also, it is constantly nourished or “bathed in” saliva. Saliva is secreted by our salivary glands which is controlled by our autonomic nervous system. It contains water, electrolytes, enzymes and mucus. It serves many functions and can even change the appearance of the tongue. Since the tongue’s appearance can change with many physiological shifts in the body it is a very sensitive organ. By observing the size, color and coating on the tongue we can see how your whole body is functioning and be able to detect imbalances in different systems in your body.

WHAT IS THE COURSE OF TREATMENT?

The number of treatments needed vary widely according to the condition. Usually one or two treatments each week is recommended at first. Each visit builds on the next, like when you go to the gym for a work out. Some health conditions can be alleviated after a few treatments. Conditions that have been present for a number of years may require more sessions to eliminate the underlying problem. With each visit we will assess your progress. A typical series will start with six sessions. Then we will decide together how often you will need to receive treatment.

IS ACUPUNCTURE COVERED BY INSURANCE?

This depends on your insurance policy. More and more health insurance companies are covering acupuncture. You can give us your insurance information and we will call and let you know what type of benefit you have. You can also call the customer service department at the phone number on your insurance card to inquire about the details of your coverage. We bill insurance so many times patients simply pay their co-pay.

WHAT INSURANCE COMPANIES ARE YOU IN-NETWORK WITH?

We are in-network with most insurance companies. If you have coverage it is very likely that we are a preferred provider with that company.

IS ACUPUNCTURE COVERED BY MY CAR INSURANCE IF I AM IN A AUTO ACCIDENT?

Yes, your medical bills resulting from a motor vehicle collision are paid for by personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. In Oregon we have a mandated law that you, and all passengers in your car, have up to $15,000 each to cover any medical bills resulting from the car accident. This gives you the right to see any doctor of your choice, including an acupuncturist. We will bill the auto insurance company for you.

HOW DO I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?

Email tracy@acupunctureoregon.com, call 503.250.3012, or click here to schedule online.