Question 1

What is acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is the method of treatment based on influencing the body by inserting needles in the specific points of human body, called acupoints.

Question 2

Will acupuncture be effective for my condition?

Accepted Answer

Chinese medicine is a complete system with a comprehensive theory and way of understanding the body so an acupuncturist can offer help for most conditions.   That doesn't mean that everyone who tries acupuncture attains a cure. There are, of course, many variables that will determine whether or not you will get relief for your condition.  The best way to find out is to find a Licensed Acupuncturist try it.

Question 3

How many treatments will I require?

Accepted Answer

Each patient is unique and responds to acupuncture differently, so the number and frequency of treatments will vary from patient to patient. The number of treatments needed to address a specific health concern depends upon the nature of your complaint as well as its duration and severity. You may need only a single treatment for an acute, minor condition.  For a chronic problem, ten or more sessions might be required. 
The effect of acupuncture is cumulative, so you should see changes as you go through a course of treatments.
Since acupuncture addresses the health of the whole body, there are many people that regularly schedule acupuncture treatments as a preventive measure to maintain good health.

Question 4

Can I have acupuncture in conjunction with other therapies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, usually.  Many people have successfully had acupuncture and treatments by chiropractors, physical therapists, psychotherapists, as well as with western medications. This will vary though, so check with your acupuncturist.

Question 5

Is acupuncture safe?

Accepted Answer

The World Health Organization and the National Institutes of Health have both evaluated the safety of acupuncture and find it to have a lower rate of side effects and complications than any prescription medications or surgical procedures. 
 
When performed by a well-trained professional, acupuncture and related techniques have proven to be extremely safe. Needles are single-use, pre-sterilized and disposable to eliminate the risk of disease transmission.
 
Licensed Acupuncturists are certified in nationally recognized Clean Needle Technique protocols to ensure that needles are kept sterile.

Question 6

What does acupuncture feel like?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture needles are smooth, metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, so when the needles are inserted most feel only a slight sensation or nothing at all. Once the needles are in place, you may feel a sensation of heaviness, warmth, or tingling at and around the site of the needle, or in other parts of the body.  Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the needle can cause soreness and pain during treatment.This is why it is important to seek treatment from a qualified acupuncture practitioner.

Question 7

How does acupuncture work?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture produces its effects through regulating the nervous system, thus aiding the activity of pain-killing biochemicals such as endorphins and immune system cells at specific sites in the body. In addition, studies have shown that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry by changing the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones thus affecting the parts of the central nervous system related to sensation and involuntary body functions, such as immune reactions and processes that regulate a person's blood pressure, blood flow, and body temperature.

Question 8

What if I am healthy? Can acupuncture help prevent future problems or enhance well being?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is powerful preventative medicine. Many people report higher energy levels, greater focus, and ability to perform at peak levels in their work and play, by scheduling regular weekly or monthly treatments to stay in top shape.

Question 9

How widely is acupuncture used in the United States?

Accepted Answer

In the past two decades, acupuncture has grown in popularity in the United States. The report from a Consensus Development Conference on Acupuncture held at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 1997 stated that acupuncture is being "widely" practiced--by thousands of physicians, dentists, acupuncturists, and other practitioners--for relief or prevention of pain and for various other health conditions.
 
According to the 2002 National Health Interview Survey--the largest and most comprehensive survey of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use by American adults to date--an estimated 8.2 million U.S. adults had used acupuncture, and an estimated 2.1 million U.S. adults had used acupuncture in the previous year.

Question 10

Will acupuncture be covered by my insurance?

Accepted Answer

A variety of insurance companies in Minnesota cover acupuncture.  However, you should check with your insurer before you start treatment to see whether acupuncture will be covered for your condition and, if so, to what extent. Some insurance plans require pre-authorization for acupuncture.  Many people have successfully used Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts for their acupuncture treatments. 
 
Also check with your licensed acupuncturist if accept insurance.

Question 11

How are practitioners trained?

Accepted Answer

A practitioner must complete a minimum of three years of graduate study at a nationally accredited school for acupuncture and Chinese medicine. This training includes a required number of hours in the classroom and in clinics treating patients with supervision.
In Minnesota, a practitioner must also pass national certification board exams, a Clean Needle Technique exam, and then submit documentation to the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice to be designated as a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.). 
To maintain the license, a practitioner must complete continuing education about acupuncture, herbal medicine, first aid, and ethics.
Frequently asked Clean Needle technique questions:   http://www.ccaom.org/needle_faq.asp
There are many traditions in this medicine, and so the background, style and specific training can vary from one practitioner to another.

Question 12

How do I choose a practitioner?

Accepted Answer

As with any health care practitioner, a personal rapport will be important.  You might choose someone based on the special focus of his or her practice.  You might also choose based on proximity to your work or home. 
 
In any case, it is important to remember that the training of the licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.) involves understanding the theory and diagnosis of a different system of medicine. Unless a chiropractor or medical doctor has a degree in Chinese medicine, they have not been trained to the same standards as a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.). 
 
Chiropractic and medical doctor's education in acupuncture in Minnesota requires a 200-hour course. This compares to the 3000+ course hours required for a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.). 
 
Physical therapists and other providers that perform muscular needle techniques have roughly 40 hours of training in needling.

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