Acupuncture

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine have been used as healing arts for over 2,500 years. The general theory is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow called Qi (pronounced chee) throughout the body which are related to the organs and musculoskeletal system. When the energy flow is disrupted due to trauma, poor diet, medication, stress, or other conditions, pain and illness result. Acupuncture focuses on correcting these imbalances of energy flow by inserting sterile, ultra-thin needles under the skin to stimulate specific points in the body. Stimulation unblocks the channels and encourages an even flow of Qi, restoring the body’s balance and relieving pain and other symptoms. Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine treat and strengthen the physical condition, normalize physiological functions, and control pain. The aim is not just to eliminate or alleviate symptoms, but rather to treat the underlying cause, increase the ability to function, and improve the quality of life.

Conditions Treated

Acupuncture works with the body, harmonizing and balancing energy. It improves circulation, releases endorphins to control pain, and allows the body to heal itself more quickly and more completely. Commonly treated conditions include:

Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture

1."What schooling is required to become a licensed acupuncturist?"

To qualify for licensure in California, a student must attend a California Board-approved school to receive theoretical and practical training, and then graduate with a Master’s level degree. Upon graduation, qualifying candidates must pass a comprehensive state licensing exam.

2. "Who regulates acupuncturists?"

The responsibilities of the California Acupuncture Board are to license and regulate the profession in accordance with the Acupuncture Licensure Act, which identifies acupuncture as a Primary Health Care profession. The Board is an autonomous body under the umbrella of the Department of Consumer Affairs. The primary responsibility of the Acupuncture Board is to protect consumers from incompetent, unprofessional, and fraudulent practitioners. For complete information on the responsibilities of the Acupuncture Board, please go to their website at: www.acupuncture.ca.gov

3. "Who benefits from acupuncture?"

Patients of acupuncture range from infants to senior citizens. They may be seeking an alternative to western medicine or it may be their last hope for relief, having exhausted all western methods for treating a chronic condition. Acupuncture offers a low risk form of treatment with few side effects.

4. "How does the acupuncturist determine what kind of treatment I need?"

An acupuncturist’s diagnosis is determined in part using methods similar to other health care practitioners: asking patients for a thorough history of their health and chief complaints, performing a physical exam, and ordering laboratory tests, X-rays and MRI’s if necessary. However, the acupuncturist also has unique diagnostic techniques, such as taking the patient¹s pulse on both wrists and observing the tongue, complexion and other signs. The three pulses felt on each wrist correspond to the major body organs and functions. The acupuncturist will explain the nature of your problem and the recommended treatment.

5. "What can I expect during an acupuncture treatment?"

Modern acupuncture needles are from one to three inches long, ultra-fine and quite flexible stainless steel. They are all pre-sterilized, non-toxic and disposable. When the needles are tapped into the skin, there may or may not be any sensation. Much depends on the location (hands and feet tend to be more sensitive), the condition being treated and the acupuncturist’s technique. Ten to twenty needles are typically placed in several acupoints and are usually left in about 20-40 minutes. The goal is to normalize the circulation of Qi and blood by stimulating the energy point, which encourages the body’s natural healing process. Stimulation can be done by rotating the needles manually or attaching electrodes to send a weak electric current through the needles.

6. "How many acupuncture treatments will I need?"

The number of treatments depends upon the duration, severity and nature of your complaint. Two or three treatments may be sufficient for an acute condition, while a series of 5 to 15 treatments may be needed to resolve chronic conditions. Some degenerative conditions may require ongoing treatments over a long period of time.

7. "Does the acupuncturist prescribe herbs?"

In the course of your treatment, you may be prescribed herbal supplements. Chinese herbs consist of a variety of naturally found products that promote health. The herbs may be dispensed in pills, capsules, tinctures or in raw form, which requires boiling as a tea. Most herb formulas consist of four to eight herbs and treat a wide variety of symptoms while stimulating the body’s natural healing process. In California, licensed acupuncturists are the only licensed health care professionals who are trained and tested for competency in the prescription of herbal medicine. California approved acupuncture schools offer a minimum of 300 classroom hours of instruction in traditional Oriental herbology, in addition to clinical training.

8. "Does my insurance cover acupuncture?"

More and more insurance companies are including acupuncture treatment in their policies. Ask your insurance carrier about coverage. Acupuncture is covered by Workers’ Compensation and most auto insurance policies.