Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Conditions Can Be Treated With Acupuncture?
Traditional Chinese Medicine has been utilized for about 2,000 years for every type of health condition. The effectiveness of this medicine depends on the skill of the practitioner, the constitution of the patient, and the consistency and frequency of treatment. In an official report, Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials, the WHO (WHO) has listed the following symptoms, diseases and conditions that have been shown through controlled trials to be treated effectively by acupuncture:
- low back pain
- neck pain
- sciatica
- tennis elbow
- knee pain
- periarthritis of the shoulder
- sprains
- facial pain (including craniomandibular disorders)
- headache
- dental pain
- tempromandibular (TMJ) dysfunction
- rheumatoid arthritis
- induction of labor
- correction of malposition of fetus (breech presentation)
- morning sickness
- nausea and vomiting
- postoperative pain
- stroke
- essential hypertension
- primary hypotension
- renal colic
- leucopenia
- adverse reactions to radiation or chemotherapy
- allergic rhinitis, including hay fever
- biliary colic
- depression (including depressive neurosis and depression following stroke)
- acute bacillary dysentery
- primary dysmenorrhea
- acute epigastralgia
- peptic ulcer
- acute and chronic gastritis
- Diseases, symptoms and conditions for which the therapeutic effect of acupuncture has been shown, but further proof is needed (68 specific conditions). These conditions are effectively treated as in the first category; it's just that more trials are necessary to establish the proof scientifically.
- Diseases, symptoms and conditions reporting some therapeutic effects for which acupuncture is worth trying (nine conditions).
- Diseases, symptoms and conditions in which acupuncture may be tried, provided the practitioner has special modern medical knowledge and adequate monitoring equipment (eight conditions).
How Does Acupuncture Work?
For a good discussion of this topic, see http://www.howdoesacupuncturework.com and
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/acupuncture/about/pac-20392763
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/acupuncture/about/pac-20392763
How Many Treatments Are Necessary?
The number of treatments necessary depends upon the type and severity of the condition being treated. A treatment plan outlining the number of visits anticipated and their anticipated efficacy is prepared for you on your first visit.
Is Acupuncture Expensive?
Acupuncture is a great healthcare bargain. Each patient receives an uninterrupted hour of care with a dedicated professional. Insurance is not required.
Does it Hurt?
No! Sometimes the needles can be slightly uncomfortable upon insertion, but the sensation generally subsides in a few seconds. Please let your practitioner know if you experience discomfort at any time.
What should I wear?
Many times your practitioner will be able to treat you while you are wearing street clothes. It is helpful to wear loose fitting comfortable clothing that can be rolled up to expose your knees and elbows. Gowns are available if you are receiving a back treatment or if the clothes you are wearing impede treatment.
What do L.Ac. & Dipl.O.M. Mean?
L.Ac. indicates that the practitioner is licensed by the State of California to practice acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. About 98% of the states recognize a national license - Dipl.O.M. indicates that the practitioner has demonstrated proficiency in biomedicine, acupuncture, herbs, and the foundations of Oriental Medicine.
Links to Professional Associations:
You can learn more here:
California Acupuncture Board:
https://www.acupuncture.ca.gov/
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine:
https://www.nccaom.org/
California Acupuncture Board:
https://www.acupuncture.ca.gov/
National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine:
https://www.nccaom.org/