FAQ / Conditions Treated


1) How does Acupuncture work?

Acupuncture activates the body’s ability to heal itself. Classical Chinese theory explains that Qi (pronounced “chee”) described as life force energy runs through the body and along its surface in specific channels called meridians. Proper circulation of the energy, blood and nutrients along these channels nourishes and regulates the entire body.

When the energy flows freely in the meridians, health is maintained. When the circulation of blood and energy is blocked or depleted, pain or illness results. Stimulating specific pressure points with acupuncture can release blocked energy and regulate areas that are depleted by guiding areas of excess to flow into the areas of deficiency. Regulating the circulation of blood and energy, not only relieves pain but also corrects internal imbalances in the body.

According to modern scientific research, acupuncture also stimulates the brain to release certain chemicals, such as endorphins, to further pain-relieving actions and decrease withdrawal symptoms. Chemical transmitters are also released from the brain to regulate the healing process and bring the body back into homeostasis (balance). Therefore, acupuncture activates the body’s ability to heal itself, thus promoting physical and mental well-being.

2) What conditions can be treated by acupuncture?

The following is a list of some of the many conditions that are treated by Acupuncture, according to the the World Health Organization:

  • - Acute Injuries
  • - ADD/ADHD
  • - Adverse Reaction to Chemotherapy
  • - Allergies
  • - Asthma
  • - Bursitis
  • - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • - Dental Pain
  • - Depression
  • - Digestive Disorders
  • - Facial Pain, TMJ
  • - Fibromyalgia
  • - Frozen Shoulder
  • - Headaches
  • - Hypertension
  • - Infertility
  • - Knee Pain, Joint Pain, Inflammation
  • - Low back Pain
  • - Menstrual Pain
  • - Migraines
  • - Morning Sickness
  • - Nausea
  • - Plantar Fasciitis
  • - Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • - Rotator Cuff Injuries
  • - Sciatica
  • - Sinusitis
  • - Sprains
  • - Stress
  • - Tennis Elbow
  • - Whiplash
In addition, acupuncture has been used for centuries throughout Asia to treat hundreds of other problems. Chinese Medicine has many modalites to clear blockages in the body that can lead to pain and disease. The clearing of these blockages assists the body in healing itself. Chinese Medicine can treat people of all ages. We've seen patients from 8 months old to 89 years old. We also have treated those who don't have any ailments per se but just wish to relax and see the body operate at its optimum.

3) What does Acupuncture entail? What does it Feel like?

Each new patient receives a full diagnosis and evaluation on his/her overall state of health. The physician utilizes diagnostic tools such as Chinese Pulse Diagnosis, Tongue Diagnosis, Abdominal Palpation and Meridian Palpation, which is based on a compilation of 5000 years of Chinese Medicine.

Each treatment is then specifically designed to address the patient’s needs and provide the utmost care to support the healing process. During a treatment disposable, sterile needles will be used to stimulate pressure points to send a signal to the brain to elicit healing and clearing of blockages. Acupuncture needles are typically thinner then a human hair, and their insertion is practically imperceptible. It is nothing like getting an ordinary injection.

In some cases, you will not even know the needles are in place. In other cases, there may be some tingling, warmth, heaviness, or a feeling of the qi moving up and down the channels. Patients new to acupuncture are often surprised to find how relaxed and refreshed they feel during the session, some even fall asleep. Patients enjoy the gentle sensation they feel from freeing the stagnation or blockages within the body. Many people experience a sensation of a pleasant buzzing feeling and deep relaxation after a treatment, fondly referred to as "the acupuncture buzz". Some patients feel immediate relief, for others the relief comes after a few days or a few sessions.

This depends on the extent and duration of the condition. When medically necessary, the patient will also be prescribed a specific herbal formula according to his/her constitution. Treatments may include: Acupuncture, Tui na Massage, Aromatherapy, Vibrational Sound Therapy, Chakrah Balancing, Guided Meditation, Nutritional Counseling, Cupping, Moxabustion, Energy Work, Heat Therapy, and Herbal Medicine. One may also notice beneficial changes in his/her sleeping patterns, digestion, menstrual cycle and emotional attitude. These are all normal and positive side benefits of a comprehensive treatment with Chinese Medicine.

4) What results can I expect from acupuncture?

'Clarity to experience life as the highest version of myself'.
Most people are surprised at how relaxed and comfortable they feel after an acupuncture treatment. For acute situations, patients feel some relief almost immediately, and generally several treatments are prescribed to allow the patient to remain symptom-free between visits.

For chronic problems, it is helpful to combine modalities such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping, nutritional changes and relaxation techniques. Multiple modalities will generally yield more complete results because several aspects of the body are addressed at one time. This includes emotional, structural, muscular, and internal functions of the body.

Chronic or severe medical conditions require more frequent treatments in the beginning, and may take a longer time to resolve. Herbal medicine and/or supplements may be prescribed to fully resolve the condition.

5) Is Acupuncture safe and effective for children?

Yes. Children normally respond even more quickly to these holistic treatments than adults. Their bodies are going through rapid growth and development-even a small stimulus in the direction of health elicits a long lasting overall benefit.

We offer treatments with acupuncture needles and without depending on the preference of the patient. Acupressure and electrical stimulation without needles are used successfully with young children. Acupuncture is proven effective in the following areas:

  • - Earaches
  • - Mental Development
  • - Focus/Concentration
  • - Behavior
  • - Prevention of Colds and Flu
  • - Treatment of ADD/ADHD
  • - Strengthening the digestive system for picky eaters, food intolerances and allergies

6) Will my health insurance cover acupuncture?

Many health insurance companies are now covering acupuncture. The amount of coverage and the amount of co-payment will differ by the policy and by the insurance provider.

Our office staff will be happy to check on your insurance coverage for you. We accept all insurances that cover out of network acupuncture.

7) What’s the best way to prepare for an acupuncture treatment?

Here are some suggestions that will help you get the maximum benefits from your treatment:

  • 1) Wear loose and comfortable clothing.
  • 2) It is best to have some food before a treatment
  • 3) Bring a list of any medications/supplements you are currently taking
  • 4) Be prepared to relax and enjoy yourself

8) What criteria should I use in choosing an acupuncturist?

Prospective patients should inquire if the acupuncturist is licensed in the State of California and Board Certified. One may ask where the practitioner has trained, and how long he or she has been in practice.

Lastly, schedule a consultation to determine if you feel comfortable and well cared for by the practitioner.

(619) 742-0055 call us first for a free phone consultation!
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