Frequently Asked Questions
If you have additional questions not covered here, please don’t hesitate to contact our office in Encinitas, California. We’re here to support you on your journey to optimal health and wellness through the power of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The Acupuncturist will do a thorough investigation of your specific concerns by asking detailed questions, then examining the tongue and pulse to determine the diagnosis. Then she will explain the diagnosis according to the theories of Chinese Medicine, and the treatment plan and offer recommendations for lifestyle changes. Finally, You will receive an Acupuncture treatment where very fine needles are inserted into the channels that need to be corrected and you will rest comfortably for 20 to 40 minutes in a warm relaxing environment.
The number and frequency of treatment depend entirely on the condition being treated. These are some general treatment guidelines. Acute conditions that are short in duration may only require 2-3 treatments for complete resolution of the issue. Chronic and stubborn conditions may require up to 10 treatments to respond positively. A general rule is that for every year a person has had a problem, you need a month of weekly treatments. However, most patients should expect some degree of relief in the first 3 to 4 treatments.
Yes. We use only sterile, individually packaged, single-use, disposable needles. Thus assuring that there is no transmission of communicable disease from patient to patient.
It is a common misconception that Acupuncture is like getting a shot. This is not true. In general, acupuncture needles are very fine and are inserted quickly and therefore bypassing any pain. For some, there may be slight discomfort or nothing at all. If the desired stimulus of the needles has been obtained, the patient should feel some heaviness, distention, tingling, or electric sensation either around the needle or up and down the affected energy pathway or meridian. This is followed by deep relaxation and a sense of calmness.
- After talking to the Acupuncturist, make an appointment.
- Fill out an Intake form and email it to the address provided.
- Don’t eat large meals just before or after your visit. You can eat and drink lightly. Try to avoid caffeine prior to your session.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes that would allow the acupuncturist to access the various parts of the body where the points are located.
- Refrain from overexertion, drugs, sex, or alcohol for up to 6 hours after your visit.
- After the treatment, avoid stress and take time to relax. Drink plenty of water. Go to bed early that night as you may feel a bit tired and sleepy.
- Between visits, make notes of any changes that have occurred and share them at your next visit or feel free to call sooner if you have any concerns.
Sometimes you may experience a feeling of soreness at the site of the needles that will dissipate in 24 to 48 hours after the treatment. Occasionally there may be slight bruising that will dissipate without any adverse effects. There may be some feelings of “spaciness” afterward, and a relaxation that most people appreciate.
Some insurance plans cover Acupuncture so you will need to call and get the specifics of your insurance policy. Most companies do not cover Chinese herbs or supplements. With the advent of Health Savings Accounts (HAS) many individuals are opting to use them for these type of services. We accept these types of Cards.