Acupuncture and Chinese medicine in Seattle, WA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does acupuncture hurt?
A momentary prick is often felt around the needle as it is inserted, eventually creating a dull pressure or tingling around the area during the treatment. Most people are amazed by how relaxed they feel during and after the treatment. This can only occur if the treatment is comfortable and gentle.

Is acupuncture safe?
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.

What conditions are treated with acupuncture?
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 & flu, 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

How many treatments will I need?
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 tailor your treatment plan.

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.

Does the clinic offer Chinese herbs? If so, what kind?
Yes, we have an extensive Chinese herbal pharmacy that consists primarily of patent herbal formulas that comes as granulated capsules or tablets. The clinic also offers customized herbal powdered blends.

*Serving Seattle, North Seattle, Northgate, Shoreline, Fremont, Ballard, Edmonds and beyond for the past 7 years. We love to help you on your health care needs and We are never busy to help you!

Insurance

We are a preferred provider for the following insurance companies:

Aetna
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
Secure Horizons
First Choice Health Network

In order to serve you better, Please call the 1-800 number on the back of your insurance card to check your eligibility for acupuncture benefit prior to the first treatment.

If we are not able to provide a in-network provider’s coverage, We are happy to provide you with a super bill.

Seattle Acupuncture Wellness Center offers a cash plan with discounted rates if the payment is made at the time of the visit. We work with you to make acupuncture treatments affordable by offering monthly installments if you have a financial difficulties or hardship so you can focus on healing process more effectively.

We accept payment by cash, check or credit/debit card.
Please call for more details at 206-522-1509 or email at info@seattleacupuncturewellness.com

Before your first visit check list

Wear loose clothing that allows access to your lower legs and lower arms. Pants should allow access up to the knee.
Please eat something light prior to your treatment. Never arrive on an empty stomach. Don’t eat too heavily just prior to or just after treatment.
Allow up to 90 minutes for the first appointment so that we have time to properly assess your health care needs.
Medical history is important. If you have diagnostic tests and reports from other practitioners that pertain to your current health concern, please bring copies so I can provide the best care possible.
Please call with any questions or concerns. I look forward to meeting you!

*Serving Seattle, North Seattle, Northgate, Shoreline, Fremont, Ballard, Edmonds and beyond for the past 7 years. We love to help you on your health care needs and We are never too busy to help you!