FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is both the science and the art of inserting hair-thin, sterile, disposable needles into acupuncture points on the body where its vital energy or “qi” accumulates.  According to Asian medical theory, qi flows through the body via meridians which interconnect and correspond to the body’s organ system.  When qi becomes blocked in these pathways, pain and illness can be the result.  Needling the acupoints on twelve main channels serves to communicate within the body’s organ network and stimulate the body’s innate healing processes. 

An acupuncturist relies on unique diagnostic tools to assess and treat each individual.  Palpating or feeling the pulses located at the wrists, observing the color, moisture and shape of the tongue and gently palpating specific areas of the abdomen for responses to pressure, can provide important information regarding the balance of health and the state of qi in each person. These diagnostic tools point to the areas of disharmony indicating which organs, channels or systems need to be balanced. 

What can I expect from an acupuncture treatment?

The insertion of the needle can feel like a small pinch with a feeling of tingling, heaviness or traveling warmth at or near the area of the needle as the qi is felt. Many patients feel a high level of relaxation and you may possibly fall asleep during treatment. After treatment, many patients feel extremely relaxed, peaceful or even energetic. Changes can be felt on various levels and may last for several days after treatment.

In Western medical theory, acupuncture appears to work by stimulating parts of the brain. It also stimulates the body to release natural biomolecules such as neurotransmitters, vasodilators, and hormones. The exact mechanisms which brings this about are unknown, but the effects are measurable.

What conditions are treatable by acupuncture?

Acupuncture is effective for a variety of biomedical conditions related, but not limited to: musculoskeletal, respiratory, Ob/GYN, genito-urinary and gastrointestinal disorders.  Both the NIH (National Institute of Health) and the World Health Organization consider acupuncture for numberous disorders such as high blood pressure, diabetes, sinusitis, arthritis, neuralgias, Bell’s palsy, headaches, infertility, anxiety, sciatica, morning sickness, depression and insomnia.  Visit our conditions treated page for more detailed examples of when acupuncture can be of benefit. 

How often would I need to come in for treatment?

Typically acupuncture treatments are given once a week. If the condition is acute and painful, it would be beneficial to schedule treatment 2-3 times per week until the condition starts to come under control. The exact duration of treatment depends on the condition, your basic level of health, and how well you respond to acupuncture.

Who can practice acupuncture?

A practitioner who is an Acupuncture or Chinese Herbal Diplomate has received national certification from the Oriental Medicine’s national certification board, the NCCAOM. In Massachusetts, licensed aupuncturists (Lic.Ac.) need NCCAOM certification and completion of a 3 year program from an accredited Oriental Medicine institution. A Master’s Degree (m>Ac.) signifies study in biomedical sciences in addition to Eastern studies.  “Medical Acupuncture” performed by MD’s does not require an intensive theoretical study of Chinese Medical Theory with coursework in the vicinity of 200-300 hours compared to approximately 3000 hours of study at the Master’s level, for licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

Does insurance cover acupuncture?

Some insurers cover acupuncture. You can usually find out by calling the number on your insurance card. We provide a “superbill” that provides all the information you need to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. It is a standardized form which insurers expect.