What is Chinese Medicine?
Chinese medicine is one of the world’s oldest systems of medicine. It is comprised of acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and other holistic modalities. Acupuncture involves the insertion of hair-thin needles into various acupuncture points on the body to re-establish balance within the individual.
WORKING REMOTELY:
Do We Work Remotely With Clients?
YES! Nicole works with patients all over the country offering health coaching programs and personalized plans for patients to overcome their symptoms and achieve their optimal wellness goals. We offer both acupuncture and/or health coaching programs online. Using both acupressure techniques and infrared patches patients can easily order online, we are able to offer acupuncture protocols that patients can do at home. In addition, we offer supplement, nutrition/diet, herbal and lifestyle plans for patients based on their specific symptoms and needs.
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Work with us ONLINE. All programs are offered in person or via video/phone chats, click here to learn more: WORK WITH US ONLINE
ACUPUNCTURE:
What does acupuncture feel like?
Acupuncture uses fine, filliform needles, which means that they are solid and thinner than the hollow needles used at doctor’s offices for injections. Sensations differ depending on the style of acupuncture and the sensitivity of the patient. Commonly, patients report feeling a tingling, heaviness, or warmth. In general, acupuncture should be a calming and relaxing experience. A session generally lasts about an hour, where the patient often rests or takes a nap once the needles are in.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of total sessions depends on a number of factors including how long a person has had the condition, patient’s lifestyle, and frequency of treatment. Ideally, a patient is seen at least 1-2 times a week during the initial phase of treatment, although sometimes more frequent sessions will be recommended, depending on the condition.
Acute conditions often require more frequent treatments over a shorter period of time, while chronic conditions usually require treatments spaced out over a longer period of time. Though you may find some relief after one session, in order for long-lasting relief, multiple treatments are necessary. As a general rule, you always want to have your next treatment before your symptoms return to their original level.
After the first round of sessions, depending on the progress, treatments may be reduced to once every other week for a maintenance level for a certain period of time. After the initial evaluation phase (usually 4-6 treatments), a suggested treatment plan will be developed for the treatments going forward that is specific to you and your condition.
What other therapies might be used during an acupuncture treatment?
Additional therapies may include the use of moxibustion, an herb (mugwort) that is burned like incense on or over a point. Cupping and light massage may also be applied during a treatment depending on your condition. Additionally, herbal therapy, vitamin or supplements and/or dietary and lifestyle changes may be recommended if appropriate to your condition.
Is acupuncture safe?
Our needles are pre-sterilized, pre-packaged, one-time-use only. Needles are immediately disposed of after use. Acupuncture is an extremely safe and virtually side-effect free therapy. Occasional bruising or slight bleeding may occur which should resolve within a few days.
Does insurance cover acupuncture?
We do not bill insurance directly. We can provide you with an invoice for you to submit to your insurance company. We advise you to check on www.acupuncture.com for lists of insurances that do include acupuncture in their plans and/or speak with your insurance company directly. If you have an HSA or FSA through your work place, you may be able to use it to pay for your acupuncture sessions.
What to expect at your first session:
Your first session begins with an extensive intake which is a comprehensive background interview about your health issues and any information that may be relevant to your condition. During this process, the practitioner will examine your tongue for color, shape, size and coating, and check your pulse. Both of these steps provide the practitioner with insight into how the whole body is functioning. Following the intake, the patient will receive their first acupuncture treatment and suggestions for going forward. The entire session, including the intake lasts about an hour and a half.