Acupuncture 101 FAQ
If you have never tried acupuncture before, you may have some questions about what a session is like and what to expect. We hope you find many answers here. If there is anything we missed, however, don’t hesitate to drop us a line and we will be happy to answer any other concerns you may have. Contact us HERE.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient method of medicine that uses the body’s energy or Qi (chee) to treat conditions such as pain, dizziness, nausea, chronic conditions, post-stroke paralysis, drug and alcohol addiction, etc.
Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile, single-use needles placed in specific locations around the body to manipulate that energy. There are acupuncture points all over the body, including the face and scalp.
Where you will have needles placed will depend on your signs and symptoms.
Other modalities used in treatment can include electro-stimulation, gua sha massage, cupping and moxibustion.
Is it safe?
When performed by a licensed and properly trained practitioner, acupuncture is arguably the safest form of alternative health care available.
Does it hurt?
Although the sensations vary, acupuncture is generally painless.
The sensations vary from completely unnoticed to a small pinch followed by a sensation of tingling, numbness, a dull ache, the movement of a warm fluid, or heaviness. Usually deep relaxation and an elevation of spirit accompany treatment.
How long does a session last?
The first session lasts approximately 75 minutes as it requires New Patient Paperwork. Follow up sessions last 45-60 minutes, depending on the nature of modalities used.
What kind of needles do you use?
To insure the highest safety standards, the needles used are DISPOSABLE, one time use only.
What can I expect during an acupuncture session?
The session will generally begin with an intake, reviewing any changes since the previous appointment or the review of new patient paperwork.
Once a treatment plan is determined, you will spend approximately 20-40 minutes being treated and relaxing on the acupuncture table.
After, it is as normal to want to continue resting as it is to be immediately energized. Sometimes there is immediate relief of pain or discomfort; sometimes the acupuncture treatment effects are more evident several days later. Because acupuncture is restorative and encourages the release of tension and worry, there is usually a sense of renewal and calm.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends on the duration, severity, and nature of your condition. This may range from a single treatment for an acute condition to a series of treatments for chronic problems. Degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time. In addition to acupuncture, there may be nutrition recommendations, supplements or Chinese herbal prescriptions to assist in the healing process.
What should I do to prepare for acupuncture?
It is best if you are neither hungry nor have a full stomach before having an acupuncture treatment. It is best, although not necessary, not to have pain medication, sedatives, or stimulants like coffee or nicotine for treatment to be most effective.
It is also best not to engage in heavy exercise two hours before or after an acupuncture treatment, and to abstain from alcohol on the day of treatment.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that provides easy access to torso, arms and legs. Women should avoid wearing one-piece dresses or tight stockings. Men should avoid wearing suits or dress shirts to their appointment.
Do not bring your cell phone into the treatment room or at the very least turn it off before entering the office. Having the phone ring during an acupuncture session takes away from the effect of the healing and is distracting to both the Doctor and the patient.
Many people think that they should not schedule an acupuncture treatment when they are sick with a cold or flu, but this is actually a good time to come, since acupuncture and herbal remedies can help speed recovery.
Do I need to bring anything to my first appointment?
Please download and print these two PDF files, and bring the completed forms along with you to the appointment:
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
MonkeyMind Wellness, Inc. has reserved time and space just for you. We all know that, in life, unexpected things come up. If cancelling an appointment is necessary, please try to do so at least 24 hours in advance. Please note, the full price of treatment will be charged for late cancellations. Thank you very much for your consideration.
Will insurance cover acupuncture?
No, At this time MonkeyMind Wellness does not participate in any forms of health care insurance, HMO, PPO, Workman’s Comp, No-Fault, etc. If your insurance plan covers acupuncture (which some do), at your request, we will provide you with an itemized receipt at the end of each office visit. You can then submit this bill to your insurance provider. If your plan covers acupuncture, your provider will reimburse you directly. However, it is your responsibility to know the extent of your insurance coverage as it relates to acupuncture.
Will acupuncture help me?
Acupuncture can effectively treat acute and chronic conditions. That being said, there are miraculous cures of apparently intractable problems as well as times when recovery is beyond the scope of acupuncture in spite of dedication and persistence. Ultimately, the only way to discover whether acupuncture is helpful for you is to try it.
Can children be treated with acupuncture?
Yes, children as young as six-months-old can benefit from acupressure, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine. There are special techniques for treating young children that are gentle and safe. Whether acupuncture needles are used depends on the comfort and temperament of the child.
Can pregnant women be treated with acupuncture?
Yes, acupuncture is effective for treating infertility, helping to avoid miscarriage, relieving morning sickness, and for other difficulties of pregnancy like edema, gestational diabetes, back or hip ache, and indigestion. Acupuncture is also effective for inducing and facilitating labor and can help correct mal-position of the fetus in the last trimester.
How do I schedule an acupuncture treatment and herbal consultation?
Please telephone MonkeyMind Wellness, Inc. Irina Shlain at 561.507.0261 to schedule an appointment. We welcome new patients and do our best to accommodate your needs. We appreciate your observance of our cancellation policy. We request payment at the time of your visit and accept cash, check, and credit cards.
What other modalities do you use besides Acupuncture?
Insertion of various styles and sizes of acupuncture needles into my body at various depths and locations.
Heat treatments using Artemesia vulgaris (moxibustion, “moxa”) or a conventional heat lamp. Indirect moxibustion treatments involve putting moxa on the head of the needle or on top of a barrier such as salt or a slice of ginger. When direct moxa is used, moxa is placed directly on the skin. In traditional acupuncture there are indications for the use of moxa when there is a ‘cold syndrome’ or for moving energy.
A massage technique called “gua sha”. The treatment leaves redness and bruising on the skin that can lasts for 1-7 days.
Cupping may be used to promote circulation of qi (energy) through the meridians.
Electrical stimulation of the needles may be used which produces a vibration or tapping sensation.
Are there any side effects to Acupuncture?
After an acupuncture treatment you will be advised to rest and drink extra water. Most people feel very relaxed and energized after an acupuncture treatment. On occasion you may experience a small bruise where a needle was inserted. If you experience any pain, large bruises, swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness after an acupuncture treatment, advise your practitioner or doctor immediately.
