What should I expect from my treatment? 

When you visit an Acupuncturist for the first time, you will be asked many questions that seem to make no sense when compared to your physical complaint.  We may ask you about your thirst, your mood, your sleep patterns, your energy level, your urination and bowel movements, and your general temperature.  Through asking questions, we are looking for a pattern of disharmony.  By diagnosing your pattern, we are able to determine which Acupuncture points and Herbal Medicine to use.  Using Acupuncture and Herbal Therapy, we bring the body back into harmony, so that it may heal itself. 

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How many treatments will I need?

Usually, a series of treatments are necessary to resolve a condition.  Often acute cases will require less treatments than more chronic issues.  Each case and condition is treated individually.  A consultation is required to determine treatment protocols.  The initial consultation and treatment usually lasts about 1 1/2 hours and each additional treatment usually lasts 1 hour.

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Does acupuncture treatment hurt?

Most patients have stated that there is little or no pain, as very fine, sterile, disposable needles are used.  When the needle is inserted in the skin, you may feel a quick pinch, a distending, or pulling feeling, a small electric shock, or a feeling of warmth or cold.  This feeling may also radiate from one part of the body to another.  You may also feel energy moving throughout the body, or feel very relaxed.  After your treatment, you may want to go to sleep, or you may feel revitalized.

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Should I consult my physician about getting acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine treatments?

It is always advisable to inform your physician about any treatment that you are seeking, and it is also very important to have a list of medications and supplements that you are taking available during your first consultation with your Acupuncturist.  Some physicians will also refer Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine practitioners to patients.

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Will my insurance cover my treatments?

Some insurance companies cover Acupuncture treatment as long as the practitioner is NCCAOM certified.  In addition, a majority of flexible account spending plans will cover these treatments.  It is recommended you call your insurance carrier to verify coverage and discuss options.  At this time, Medicare only covers lower back pain, and only if the Acupuncture is done by a Doctor, Nurse, or Physician's Assistant or an Acupuncturist who is working under a Doctor's supervision.  But, most Medicare Advantage plans will cover Acupuncture by an Acupuncturist, and they may cover more than just lower back pain.  Medicaid covers acupuncture in a number of states, but not Florida.  Please consider calling your Representative or Congressperson and ask them to pass HR4803, which is a bill before Congress that will include Licensed Acupuncturists in Medicare Coverage.   Chinese herbs are not normally covered, nor is the herb consultation, but some insurance companies within some states are now starting to cover it.  

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