Frequently Asked Questions.
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According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, acupuncture works to balance the flow of Qi (energy), which circulates through the body along central pathways, known as meridians. The obstruction or deficiency of Qi will eventually lead to pain and illness. Acupuncture stimulates the points along the meridians to adjust and balance the flow of Qi and restore health.
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People often comment that the feeling is unfamiliar, but pleasant and relaxing. Different sensations such as heaviness, soreness, distending, warmth and pressure may be felt.
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The vast majority of acupuncture points can be needled painlessly, while some points, due to their surrounding structural anatomy may be considered uncomfortable, or inflict a slight pinch. Any discomfort usually disappears within seconds.
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Yes! We use sterile and disposable needles approved by the FDA. They are metallic, solid, flexible and hair-thin, unlike the thicker, hollow, hypodermic needles used to take blood samples.
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The 1st visit takes about 1–1.5 hours. Follow-up visits are about 1 hour. The needles are usually retained for about 25–30 minutes.
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Since each person is unique, the number of treatments required will vary, depending on the type of condition, whether it’s chronic or acute, as well as the overall health of the individual. Keep in mind, dramatic results are unusual after a single treatment. Most patients will experience a gradual relief of their symptoms over days, weeks or months.
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Some people report feeling relaxed but a little tired while others feel full of energy immediately after treatment; both are normal. Others notice effects a day or two after treatment. Occasionally a small bruise may appear where a needle has been inserted but this should disappear within a day or two.
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We suggest wearing loose, comfortable clothing.
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Chinese herbs are effective and safe when prescribed by a well-trained herbal practitioner. Our comprehensive training in herbal medicine guides our careful attention to dosage, combinations of herbs and any known drug-herb interactions. We only purchase our herbs from reputable suppliers who adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). GMPs are guidelines that govern the manufacturing process of a product to ensure that the quality and safety of the product is consistent. By documenting the manufacturing process, validating the equipment used, and following preset guidelines, the quality of the herbs is ensured.
Herbs are typically gentler and have fewer side effects than pharmaceutical drugs because of their balancing or regulating effect on the body. The most common side-effect, if any, is gas and bloating due to slight difficulty digesting the herbs. Patients who experience this or any other side effect should notify us immediately so we can alter the dosage or modify the formula.
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No. You should continue to follow your current physician’s instructions. Do, however, let us know what medications, herbs and supplements you are taking, so we can consider any interactions. Some herbs can complement Western medications, either by helping to eliminate their side-effects or by boosting the body’s immune system. The regular use of herbs may eventually reduce the body’s need for western drugs.
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