Acupuncture F.A.Q.

What is acupuncture?

Originating in China more than 2,000 years ago, Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. The term acupuncture describes the use of different treatment modalities including the use of needles and warmth to stimulate the “Qi” or vital energy in one’s body. Acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will re-balance by inserting needles into specific points along these meridians.

How does Acupuncture Work?
There is vital life energy that courses through our body. The ancient Chinese called it “Qi” (pronounced “chee”). Qi can be stimulated on the surface of the body by dozens of channels or meridians that connect hundreds of acupuncture points. These points have specific and powerful effects on many organs and functions of the body, including the mind and spirit.

By the gentle insertion of ultra-fine, sterilized needles, a skilled acupuncturist can direct the flow of qi to strengthen the body’s hormones, organs, blood and nerves, bringing balance and healing. Modern research has confirmed that Acupuncture has a strong effect on stimulating endorphins, serotonin, cortisol, ACTH, and other powerful chemicals that our body naturally produces in order to heal disease and maintain a healthy state. Acupuncture is usually painless and can stimulate profound feelings of relaxation and well-being. Occasionally you may experience a slight prick or sore sensation. Any discomfort is usually very temporary, and your practitioner can adjust the treatment to match your tolerance level.

What does acupuncture feel like?

Most People Feel No or Minimal Pain

Most people are surprised to find out that acupuncture needles are hair-thin. They are so tiny that they are often inserted into the pores on the surface of the skin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed.

Is acupuncture safe?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners in 1996. The FDA requires that sterile, nontoxic needles be used and that they be labeled for single use by qualified practitioners only. At Bloomfield Total Health Center, we use only sterile, packaged, single-use, nontoxic needles. Once a needle is used it is disposed of in a biological waste container.

What will is cost and how many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments needed depends greatly on the nature, severity and chronicity of the disease. Please call us and we can answer all of your questions regarding pricing and frequency of treatments.

Will it be covered by my insurance?

Some insurance companies will cover acupuncture. If you are unsure of your coverage or to check the amount you are covered for, contact our office and our staff will be able to assist in obtaining the information.

Treatable Conditions:
The National Institute of Health (NIH) and World Health Organization (WHO) deems acupuncture to be effective in treating various conditions such as:

Digestive

•Abdominal pain
•Constipation
•Diarrhea
•Hyperacidity
•Indigestion
Miscellaneous

•Addiction control
•Athletic performance
•Blood pressure
•Chronic fatigue
•Immune system
•Stress reduction

Emotional

•Anxiety
•Depression
•Insomnia
•Nervousness
•Neurosis

Musculoskeletal

•Arthritis
•Neck pain
•Back pain
•Sciatica
•Muscle cramping
•Muscle pain

Eye-Ear-Nose-Throat

•Cataracts
•Gingivitis
•Poor vision
•Tinnitus
•Toothache

Neurological

•Headaches
•Migraines
•Parkinson’s disease
•Postoperative pain
•Stroke

Gynecological

•Infertility
•Menopausal symptoms
•Premenstrual syndrome

Respiratory

•Asthma
•Bronchitis
•Common cold
•Sinusitis
•Smoking cessation
•Tonsillitis
…and much more…