An Introduction to Acupuncture

You may be wondering, what can acupuncture be used for? Or, what exactly is acupuncture? Below you will find a brief overview of this excellent form of healing.

History:
The theory and practice of acupuncture is rooted in ancient traditional Chinese medicine and is a form of medical treatment that has been used for thousands of years. Acupuncture uses the body’s own energy, or “qi,” to help balance, re-align, and ultimately heal itself.

Uses:
For over 3,000 years, acupuncture has been used by doctors throughout eastern Asia to prevent and treat ailments of all kinds. Today, acupuncture is used around the globe and is endorsed as a viable medical treatment option by both the World Health Organization and the United States National Institutes of Health. Acupuncture can be used as a form of treatment for nearly any health concern. Currently, acupuncture is most well-known for its powerful effect in helping reduce pain without the use of medication. Acupuncture is also widely used for addressing hormonal imbalances, such as menstrual irregularities, infertility, and menopausal symptoms. It is also common therapy for emotional support that is used for conditions such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, or stress reduction. Other common health concerns that can be treated with acupuncture include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, headaches, allergies, asthma, and nasal congestion.

Methods:
Although the application of acupuncture can vary greatly, at NaturoMedica, we utilize a gentle form of acupuncture. Very small - almost hair-thin – needles are inserted in the skin at specific points that help activate the body’s qi, promoting movement of energy and supporting a natural healing process. In some cases, massage and “cupping” may be used to loosen tight, sore muscles and promote the free-flow of qi throughout the body.

Auricular acupuncture:
In addition to traditional acupuncture, an additional form of ear acupuncture, known as auricular acupuncture, may also be used in your treatment. Auricular acupuncture is extremely useful in helping reset neuropathways in the brain, and is often used to address many forms of addictions. Auricular medicine is extremely helpful as treatment for smoking cessation or appetite control.

Timing:
Most acupuncture treatments last 20-45 minutes. During your treatment you will spend some time resting on the table with needles inserted at strategic points. Generally, a series of 6-12 treatments will be required for maximum benefit. Typically, it is best to receive these treatments in succession on a weekly or every-other-week basis. In some unique cases, you may be recommended to receive two treatments a week for a short period of time.

Pricing:
Our fee for hour-long acupuncture visits is $129 per session. As a special introductory service, we are offering acupuncture packages; six hour-long sessions for $495. For those interested in a series of acupuncture visits, purchasing a package provides a more economical option. Patients will pay for treatment at time of service, but will receive a superbill to submit to insurance for reimbursement. Reimbursement varies by insurance provider.