How does acupuncture work?
What happens during an acupuncture treatment?
Does acupuncture hurt?
How many treatments will I need?
What do I before and after a treatment?
Do you accept insurance?
What is a sliding scale?
May I refer others to you?
How does acupuncture work?
The roots of Chinese acupuncture can be traced back more than 2,500 years in ancient texts. Discussed in these writings are the theories of Qi (energy) and how it flows through the body via channels and pathways. Just as water weaves through rivers and streams the Qi ebbs and flows through the body. Using acupuncture points along these pathways, the needles access Qi, guiding it into balance within the body.
What happens during an acupuncture treatment?
During your first acupuncture visit you will be asked to complete a confidential intake form that includes your current and past health history. Your primary health concerns will be discussed as well as other aspects of your life. Your tongue will be examined (please don’t brush it!) as well as pulses on both wrists. Also included during a consultation are abdominal, channel and point palpation – all of which will be explained by your acupuncturist. A treatment plan is determined and you will lie comfortably on a massage table. Sterile, one-time-use, disposable needles will be inserted into specific points on your body and retained for approximately 15-40 minutes. Depending on your treatment plan the needles may be moved gently or stimulated with electricity or heat. At the end of your treatment the needles are removed one at a time and your acupuncturist will then spend a few minutes discussing the treatment and answering any questions you may have.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are thin – approximately 10-15 acupuncture needles wrapped together equal the size of the needle used when your blood is drawn. Depending on the location of the acupuncture point, the patients’ age, size and the nature of the treatment, needles are generally inserted from .25-1.0 inches. A sensation of heaviness, a dull ache, tingling or itching may be felt at the insertion site and may radiate up or down the body. As you rest with the needles in the acupuncture points, a feeling of relaxation and calm may be felt or you could possibly doze off. Acupuncture is a pleasant experience – please discuss your concerns with your acupuncturist.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends on the nature of your complaint. In general, for acute conditions fewer treatments are necessary, whereas chronic conditions may take more time. During the initial consultation a comprehensive treatment plan will be discussed including the recommended number and frequency of treatments.
What do I do before and after a treatment?
Eat a small meal 1-2 hours before a treatment, try to avoid coming to an appointment with an empty stomach. Avoid coffee and alcohol before and after an acupuncture treatment. For the treatment, gowns are provided or you may wear your own loose comfortable clothing.
Do you accept insurance?
At this time Birdstone Healing does not accept insurance. We can provide you with a health insurance claim form that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. We recommend that you contact your insurance provider before treatment in order to clarify coverage and reimbursement policies. Below are some questions to ask your provider:
Is acupuncture covered under my policy? Is there a limit to the amount of acupuncture I can receive, either per year or per given illness?
Are only certain disease diagnosis codes (ICD9 codes) covered under my plan? If so, what are they?
Does my deductible apply to acupuncture? Have I met my deductible?
What is a sliding scale?
Everyone deserves healthcare but not everyone has a steady income. A sliding scale is a range of payment options that allow you to adjust what you pay according to your ability to pay. Please contact Erika to discuss sliding scale payment options.
May I refer others to you?
Yes! Family members, friends, and co-workers – all will benefit from acupuncture. As a thank you, you will receive $10 off your next visit for your referral.