FREQUENCY ASKED QUESTIONs
What can acupuncture treat?
- treats a wide range of health issues and discomforts
- increases energy and improves immune system
The National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization recognize acupuncture as an effective treatment for about four dozen common condition.
Click the link to find the long list of what can acupuncture treat!
Is Acupuncture safe? Are the needles sterile?
Acupuncture is very safe. CTCA only uses disposable, sterile, stainless steel acupuncture needles and used disposable needles discarded properly in sharps containers. Needles are never re-used on patients. Every precaution is taken by the well-trained practitioner to ensure the safety and privacy of every patient.
Do needles hurt?
We use hair thin, sterile, disposable needles. When the needle is inserted, you may feel nothing at all or you may feel something a little discomfort akin to slight insect bite. But once they are in, most people find the treatment very relaxing and regularly fall asleep.
Do you prescribe herbal medicine? Are Chinese herbs safe?
Yes. A lot of chronic conditions respond very well to a combination of acupuncture and herbal medicine. For example: digestive disorders, allergies, common cold and flu, female menstrual health can all be helped with herbs. Chronic inflammatory, auto-immune are also good candidates for herbal support.
Chinese herbs are effective and safe when prescribed by a well-trained herbal practitioner. We only purchase our herbs from highly reputable suppliers who adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). GMPs are guidelines that govern the manufacturing process of a product to ensure that the quality and safety of the product is consistent.
How long does an acupuncture treatment last?
We recommend a minimum of 30 minutes for your session, but we also have people napping or relaxing during their session for an hour or more. Most people find the treatment very relaxing and regularly fall asleep. Please arrange enough time for yourself and enjoy your treatment!
How many treatment do I need?
Acupuncture is a process. It works by stimulating the body’s own self-healing mechanisms. It is gentle and gradual. Each treatment builds upon the previous one — acupuncture is cumulative. Your acupuncturist will create a treatment plan especially for you. Here are some general recommendations:
- New conditions: For new problems – such as if you recently twisted your ankle or your back just went out – then 2 (or sometimes 3) treatments a week for 2 to 3 weeks will usually do the trick. After that, your acupuncturist will help you determine if further treatments are still needed.
- Chronic conditions: For chronic problems – such as if you have pain that’s lasted many months or years – then it’s most effective to start with treatments twice a week for one month and then gradually decrease the frequency as you improve. After the first month or about 10 treatments, you and your acupuncturist should have a good understanding of how you respond to acupuncture and how long your course of treatment should last.
Acupuncture works best when it is frequent and regular. So if you don’t come in often enough or for long enough, acupuncture probably won’t work well for you. In fact, you will spend less money and less time by getting treated frequently in the beginning, than if you come sporadically for a long period of time. We strive to make your course of treatment as quick and effective as possible.
Female patients: Can I have treatment during menstrual cycle?
Acupuncture is a great way to regulate cycle for women. If you come for treat menstrual related issue, it is good time to have treatment during menstrual cycle. Otherwise, please avoid to get acupuncture treatment at first a few days of your menstruation.
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable and relatively loose fitting clothes. We usually need access to your feet and legs up to the knee, and your hands and arms up to the elbow. We ask that, given allergies and sensitivities, you refrain from wearing strong scents like perfume or cologne. Please try to have a little food/calories in your system when you come for acupuncture.
How does the sliding scale payment work?
For a single treatment our sliding scale is $25 - $55. We want you to use the scale to make it possible to come in often enough to really get better and stay better! You decide what you can afford; we do not need any type of income verification. The sliding scale is part of our business plan, and we understand that everyone’s situation is different. We accepts payment in cash and check only.
What is your cancellation policy?
To cancel your appointment, we need 24 hrs notice before your appointment. We charge $10 for late cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice
and $25 for no-shows. Please call us or email us at earliest time if you need to reschedule.
Does health insurance cover acupuncture?
Many health plans include acupuncture as a benefit. I recommend you call your insurance company to see if your insurance covers acupuncture. In order to keep the rates as low as possible, I do not bill insurance. If you plan to seek reimbursement, please pay the full amount and I will provide a super bill for you. Then you can submit to your insurance company with claim for refund.