Questions? We’re happy to walk you through this.
Does it hurt?
This is a common question asked by newcomers, and our answer is: if it hurts, we’re not doing it right. Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are solid and hair-thin, and they are not designed to cut the skin. They are also inserted to much more shallow levels than hypodermic needles, generally no more than a half-inch to an inch depending on the type of treatment being delivered. While each person experiences acupuncture differently, most people feel only a minimal amount of pain as the needles are inserted. Some people reportedly feel a sensation of excitement, while others feel relaxed.
Is it safe?
When practiced by a trained and licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture is extremely safe. In fact, Mayo Clinic also encourages to look for acupuncturists that have the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine--which Dr. Chung has. As a system of health care, acupuncture already has some inherent safeguards. Because the treatment is drug-free, patients do not have to worry about taking several doses of a medication or suffering a possible adverse reaction.
Most importantly, we have noticed that people have been skeptical if acupuncture is effective due to the rise of sham acupuncturist. While acupuncture has been around Asia for over thousands of years, Western studies have just gotten around focusing on acupuncture.
Properly administered, acupuncture does no harm. However, there are certain conditions you should notify an acupuncturist about before undergoing treatment. If you have a pacemaker, for instance, you should not receive electroacupuncture due to the possibility of electromagnetic interference with the pacemaker. Similarly, if you have a tendency to bleed or bruise easily, or if you are a hemophiliac, you may want to consider a different type of care.
How does it feel?
Insertion of the needles goes unnoticed by some, and to others feels like a small pinch followed by a sensation of tingling, numbness, ache, traveling warmth, or heaviness. Sometimes people feel Qi moving at distance from the point of insertion. Needles remain in place for twenty to forty minutes. Usually relaxation and an elevation of spirit accompanies treatment. It is as normal to want to continue resting as it is to be immediately energized. Some notice a relief of symptoms or feel more energetic in the days that follow treatment. Most people are pleased to find that sessions are not uncomfortable and even look forward to them.
Why do people decide to try acupuncture?
Our patients come from all walks of life. As cliché as that sounds, people come because they want to stay away from western medicine (painkillers and prescribed drugs), or they’ve tried western medicine and it just hasn’t worked for them. Others want to utilize herbs, acupuncture, and homeopathic remedies to see if it’ll help them overcome their sickness.
What are the rates?
Please call ahead of time to make an appointment to come in for consultation; we can discuss this with you in more detail depending on your ailment. The cost of the treatment will vary for each person depending on the number of symptoms as well as the type of treatment (i.e. acupuncture with or without electricity, herbal medicine).
What do you usually treat for?
Low back pain, infertility, menstrual cycle (PMS), weight loss, smoking cessation, TMJ, alleviation for stress and anxiety, shoulder pain, neck pain, Bell’s Palsy, tennis elbow, tendonitis, arthritis, joint pain, headaches, migraines-- but please call us to see how you we can help you. Dr. Chung will answer all of your questions.
What is your insurance policy?
Payment is expected at the time of service. We do not bill any insurance directly. Please contact your insurance company to determine eligibility and coverage. For the patients whose insurance policy covers acupuncture service, we will provide the necessary information for you to receive reimbursement from your insurance company. We accept, however, PI (auto-accident insurance).