Q: What is Acupuncture and what does it do?
A: Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles usually stainless steel (sterile and single use) into specific points in the skin and muscles of the body. These points have been mapped out by the Chinese over thousands of years. Recently, electromagnetic research has confirmed that acupuncture points do exist.
The needles stimulate the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”) which is a Chinese term for subtle energy. This energy controls the smooth flow of energy throughout the body. Like a fine tuned machine, if one connection is lost, the relay message is lost and the next relay in line to fire is not connected. This creates a domino effect and the end result is “something just isn’t working.” The body is an amazing machine which will tolerate a lot of disharmony before it caves in. The secret to maintaining any machine is proper maintenance and frequent tuning. Acupuncture helps the body heal itself by keeping the connections intact or creating smooth flowing Qi in your body.
Q: How does Acupuncture-Oriental Medicine work?
A: Oriental Medicine (OM) includes Acupuncture, Herbology, Moxibustion, Tui Na (Chinese massage) dietary therapy and exercise.
The Chinese developed and understanding of the body and the specific pathways to all organs. This network is like a web which goes deeply into the body connecting with more superficial pathways. This explains why inserting acupuncture needles into the arm can affect the Large Intestine or perhaps the Heart. If one part of this web gets disturbed it impacts all the fine connections which creates this web and dis- ease occurs.
The acupoints used in your treatment are like a prescription of points used for your specific disharmony. The human brain is like a computer, but more sophisticated than any computer we know. Think of the acupoints as a “computer program” Sometimes we just need a little reprogramming. The acupuncturist is like a computer programmer who makes sure that your computer is working smoothly.
A: The acupuncturist will sit down with you and ask about medical history, likes/dislikes, sleeping habits, emotions, stressors, cravings, energy levels and when they drop and an array of questions to get an idea what kind of “terrain” your body is showing, dry, wet, deficient or excess. We will examine your wrist pulses (nine in each wrist) and your tongue. These give us clues as to what is going on inside your body. (Allow about 1 1/2 hours for the first visit and one hour for follow up visits). The acupuncturist will create a treatment plan for you based on all the information gathered in the initial intake. Depending on how long and the nature of the disharmony it could be a quick fix or it may take some time. Remember, Acupuncture is not a band aid, it works at a deeper level to correct, not mask the problem.
A: When looking for an acupuncturist be sure to look for proper qualifications. Many chiropractors and MD’s perform acupuncture. Depending on which state, these practitioners are required to get about 100 hours of training to give acupuncture. An NCCAOM (National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists); LAc. (licensed Acupuncturist); Dipl.Ac. (Diplomat of Acupuncture) DOM (Dr. of Oriental Medicine) OMD (Oriental medical Doctor) will have a minimum of four years training equivalent to a Masters Degree. Be sure to ask for credentials.
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: This will depend on the duration, severity, and nature of your complaint as well as your overall health. A series of five to fifteen treatments may resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may require many treatments over time. Chinese herbs can be very helpful to speed this process along. Two treatments a week is not unusual with severe symptoms, once a week is usual although your practitioner will set up a protocol for your specific needs.
Patients often experience the most dramatic results in the first treatment. Some experience partial relief or their pain or other symptoms. This relief may last for various periods of time. The better you are at reporting results to your practitioner, the better we are able to taylor your treatment plan.
Q: What do I need to do for an acupuncture treatment?
A: 1. Wear loose clothing with minimal jewelry.
2. Avoid treatment when exhausted, hungry, extremely full, or after you have consumed alcohol.
3. Wear minimal make up (we need to see your complexion) and don’t scrape scrub or brush your tongue, we need to see it in its natural state.
After your treatment avoid sudden temperature changes ie: sitting in a hot tub or heavy exercise. You may feel energetic or you may feel so relaxed that you want to rest. Honor your body and be sure to schedule your appointments to allow some down time if you need it.
During treatment avoid changing your position or moving suddenly. If you are uncomfortable, tell your practitioner.
Some people experience dizziness, nausea, cold sweat, shortness of breath. This often occurs if you are nervous. Inform your practitioner immediately so he or she can readjust or withdraw the needles.
Be sure to let your practitioner know if you feel an increasing amount of pain or burning sensation during the treatment. If you find your treatment unbearable at any point, be sure to speak up so your practitioner can make the proper adjustments or stop the treatment.
Q: Will my insurance pay for acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine?
A: Insurance Plans accepted:
Cigna
Lifewise Health Plan
North Star Administrators
OHSU Workers’ Compensation Program
Personal Injury Protection(PIP)/Auto Injury Insurance
Premera
Premera Lifewise of WA
Uniform Medical Plan
United Health Care
First Choice Health Network
Mu Tong Acupuncture and Herbs offers a cash plan with discounted rates if payment is made at the time of the visit.
Q: What does an acupuncture needle feel like? Does it hurt?
Most patients find acupuncture to be relaxing and rejuvenating.
Acupuncture needles can be inserted without discomfort to the patient. Some
patients may feel a slight pinch that passes quickly, like a mosquito bite. Once
the needle is inserted, the patient may feel sensations such as heaviness,
lightness, throbbing, tingling or itchiness. In many cases, the sensation is
more subtle.
Q: Are needles clean and safe?
When performed by a competently trained, licensed acupuncturist, it is
extremely safe. All licensed acupuncturists today use individually
package, sterile, disposable needles. So there is virtually no chance of
infection or contagion.
Q: What conditions can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is known primarily as a means of treating pain. The World
Health Organization recognizes acupuncture’s effectiveness in treating the
following disorders.
Musculo-skeletal disorders
Arthritis
Carpal tunnel syndrome
All pain from common injuries,
car accidents or trauma
Migraine and other headaches
Sciatica
Chronic fatigue
Fibromyalgia
Tennis elbow
Frozen shoulder
TMJ(Trigeminal Neuralgia)
Respiratory disorders
Colds & flus, bronchitis, asthma,
allergies, chronic cough
Gastrointestinal disorders
Food allergies, nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation,
stomach Ulcers
Gas and bloating
Gynecological disorders
Menstrual irregularity,
endometriosis, painful menstruation, infertility, menopausal symptoms
Urogenital disorders
Cystitis, stress incontinence,
any bladder issues, prostatitis, kidney stones
Urinary tract infections
Psycho-emotional and neurological
disorders
Depression, anxiety, insomnia, post-stroke paralysis,
dizziness, tinnitus
Addictions and eating disorders
Q: What can I expect after treatment?
After a person receives acupuncture treatment, he or she will experience a
sense of general well-being and relaxation. It is reported that an
individual feels an improvement in sleep quality, digestion and overall energy
levels. Since acupuncture heals the body through natural techniques, side
effects are very rare. Mild exacerbation of conditions may be felt after a
first treatment, but subsides with additional treatments. Acupuncture is
safe for persons of all ages including children and the elderly, although
treatment for the elderly is usually done to reduce discomfort and manage a
stable condition.
Q: What is herbal medicine?
A: Herbal Medicine is an integral part of oriental medicine. Licensed and qualified practitioners of traditional oriental medicine work to formulate a prescription that will meet the individual needs of the patient.
Herbal medicine can be used for many kinds of illnesses and to help the body to recover after an illness, and to strengthen the immune system to prevent disease. Most often, herbs are used in combinations of ten to fifteen different herbs.
Each herbal formula would be designed according to an individual’s constitution and condition.
At Mu Tong Acupuncture and Herbs, herbs are prescribed mostly in pill form, using patent remedies. These are herbal combinations processed by reputable herbal medicine companies and are very reliable in treating many conditions.