What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is part of an ancient medical system called Traditional Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine promotes health and treats illness or pain. Acupuncture is the insertion of sterile, very fine, single-use needles through the skin at acupuncture points.
How does it work?
Acupuncture moves Qi (pronounced chee, vital energy of life) throughout the body in channels called meridians. When healthy, the qi moves freely throughout the channels. If a person experiences illness, pain, or emotional upset, the qi can become stagnant causing pain or other symptoms. Acupuncture helps to move qi through the meridians to restore the body’s natural balance and to support the body’s ability to heal.
What will needle insertion feel like?
You may experience a warm, tingling feeling or heaviness at the acupuncture points or throughout the body. It can be a very comforting feeling, and many people fall asleep on the treatment table. Occasionally, some people feel slight discomfort upon insertion but that feeling goes away after the initial insertion. The needles are generally retained for about 20 minutes. At the end of a treatment, you may feel calm, and relaxed.
What can acupuncture treat?
People seek acupuncture in the treatment of a variety of conditions including pain, stress/anxiety or depression, arthritis, women’s issues, migraine headache, rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, stroke and much more. According to the World Health Organization there are over 200 conditions for which acupuncture can be very effective.
How should I prepare for my treatment?
We recommend that you have eaten something before your treatment. It is best to have a treatment when you are not overly hungry nor too full. Maintain good hygiene before your treatment and wear loose, comfortable clothes. You may wish to bring a list of questions to ask the practitioner.
How many treatments do I need?
For acute conditions, you may only need one to three treatments to feel great relief. Generally speaking, the longer the condition, the longer the treatment course but this is not always the case. Treatments can be cumulative in effect so in the beginning it may be advantageous to have treatments closer together and then taper off as the symptoms ease. Your practitioner will make a recommendation as to your course of treatment.
What is a Chinese herbal formula like?
Your practitioner may want to include an herbal remedy in your treatment plan. Generally, these formulas come in the form of capsules or pills. They are very much like taking a vitamin supplement.
What are the qualifications of the acupuncturists at Artisan Acupuncture?
We are certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and licensed by the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice. We have completed over 3,000 hours of training in Chinese and Western medicine and have received a Master of Science degree from an accredited program.
Does my insurance cover Chinese medicine services?
You should check with your individual insurance provider to find out if acupuncture is covered and for which conditions you may receive reimbursement. We are currently not “in-network” with any providers but can supply you with a “super-bill” to submit to your provider for reimbursement if you’re covered. You can use flexible spending accounts at our clinic.
