1. What is Chi (Qi)?
    Chi is the energy that animates your body, invisible and its presence becomes especially apparent in the workings of the bodily organs and systems which require prodigious amounts of energy. Chi circulates through specific pathways called meridians. There are 14 main meridian pathways traveling throughout human body. Each one is connected to an organ system. When Chi flows smoothly and harmoniously throughout the meridians, we can enjoy good physical, mental and emotional health.

  2. Why is Chi blocked?
    Chi is meant to flow freely throughout the meridian network carrying its balanced vital force to all the body’s part even mind and spirit. But physical or emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, poor diet, repetitive strain, excessive activities, seasonal changes, infectious or contagious diseases and a weak constitution can lead to imbalances that disrupt the normal flow of Chi. Under normal circumstances when a disruption occurs, you will easily bounce back, returning balanced, good health. But any sustained blockage, or other disruption of a balanced flow or distribution of Chi may bring on pain, illness, or a weakened immune system.

  3. How does acupuncture work?
    Many physical and emotional conditions involve obstruction of bioelectrical energy in the body. Restoring the body to a more balanced state can dramatically improve many of these conditions. Treatment insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to improve the circulation of bioelectrical energy (Chi) and restore the balance of Yin and Yang.

  4. Does acupuncture hurt?
    Typically, acupuncture needles are fine and flexible, no bigger than a human hair or piece of thread. Deftly inserted into an acupoint by a skilled practitioner, the slender needle produces little or no sensation at all. Most patients are usually amazed at how comfortable and relaxing they are during treatment.

  5. Is acupuncture safe?
    Absolutely, yes. We only use brand new, sterile, individually wrapped disposable needles with every patient. We also clean any area to be needled with disposable alcohol pads before any needling takes place. Also there is no medicine on the needle.

  6. How deep are the needles inserted?
    All acupuncture points have a suggested needle insertion depth but we also take into account the size, age and constitution of the patient. A general range would be from 0.1 ” to 1.5″ in depth.

  7. How long do treatments take?
    This depends on the patient’s condition and treatment plan. Normally each treament takes an average of 30 minutes to an hour.

  8. How many treatments will I need?
    This depends on several factors such as the severity, duration and nature of your condition. For acute conditions as few as one or two sessions may be enough. Chronic conditions require more time, but signs of improvement are generally experienced soon after treatment begins.

  9. What should I expect during my first treatment?
    Initial treatments are approximately one hour to 1.5 hours and consist of a detailed health intake and constitution, which addresses the entire person, an acupuncture session and any recommended herbal medicine. We will cover all aspects of your physical, mental and emotional state of health. We utilize a tongue evaluation and pulse diagnosis to determine the body’s state of health according to Traditional Oriental medical patterning. Based on this comprehensive information, a treatment plan is established. For acupuncture treatments, we recommend that you wear loose and comfortable clothing. Gowns can be provided if needed. Most patients experience deep relaxation or sleep during the treatments.

  10. What should I do after an acupuncture session?
    It is most beneficial to be relaxed and rested after treatments. Please avoid alcohol, intense physical activities, stressful situations and caffeine for a few hours after treatments.

  11. Are acupuncture treatments covered by insurance?
    We do accept health insurance, however very few insurance companies provide acupuncture benefits. Patients should contact their insurance provider to verify. We will be happy to provide a bill for patients to submit to their insurance provider for reimbursement.