IHG
Integrative Health Group
FAQS
Q: What is acupuncture and how does it work?
A: Acupuncture jump-starts our self-healing ability by delivering precise mechanical signaling in the body that induces a physiological response. Acupuncture needle stimuli promote the release of endorphins and blood flow, move lymph, boost homeostasis, and improve the integrity of tissues. Research has found some acupuncture treatments to produce an analgesic effect (decrease pain) mediated partly by endogenous opioids in the hypothalamus, midbrain, and spinal cord.
The central mechanism behind acupuncture needling is that it helps to normalize and balance the way our body functions by stimulating the part of the brain that controls several systems in our body, such as the musculoskeletal, nervous, endocrine, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Research shows that the brain and spinal cord react positively to acupuncture stimulation, which induces systemic benefits.
Clinical evidence shows that acupuncture stimulation normalizes the activities of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems to restore optimal homeostasis, a state of balance among all the body systems needed for the body to survive and function correctly.
Q: What should I expect during my first visit to Integrative Health Group?
A: During your first visit, an assessment will be performed to determine the best course of treatment for you, and a discussion regarding the treatment process and answer any questions you may have.
Q: What should I wear to an acupuncture session?
A: It is recommended to wear loose, comfortable clothing to an acupuncture session to allow for easy access to the parts of the body where the needles will be inserted.
Q: What should I expect after an acupuncture session?
A: After an acupuncture session, you may feel relaxed or energized. You may feel some soreness, similar to working out. For some, there is instant relief; for others, as the days progress, improvements are more noticeable. In the first 48 hours, the body is adjusting the most; it's recommended to take it easy. Drinking plenty of water and getting plenty of rest can help maximize acupuncture's benefits.
Q: Is acupuncture painful?
A: Acupuncture is generally not painful. Patients may feel a slight sensation when the needles are inserted, but this is typically not painful.
Q: Is acupuncture safe?
A: Yes, acupuncture is safe when performed by a qualified and licensed practitioner. Board-certified licensed acupuncturists adhere to the highest standards of professional conduct to ensure the safety and efficacy of your treatment.
Q: Do I need a referral to schedule an acupuncture appointment?
A: No, you do not need a referral to schedule an acupuncture appointment with us, except that some health insurance plans require a doctor's referral. We welcome new patients and look forward to helping you improve your health and well-being.
Q: How many sessions?
A: The treatment process has a beginning, middle, and end. The number of sessions is often determined by how fast improvements are made in the beginning stages. If there are marked improvements in the beginning stages, it is usually the case where there are fewer sessions needed. The beginning is when marked improvements will be made, the middle is where we build on this and take it as far as we can until we hit the maximum therapeutic benefit. The middle stage should build steadily whereby your condition(s) are improving. The end stage is where the progress is stable and lasting.
Q: How can acupuncture help my condition?
A: Acupuncture has been most recognized for the following therapeutic responses:
Stress reduction
Anti-inflammatory response
Accelerates tissue healing
Pain relief
The NIH states "Results from a number of studies suggest that acupuncture may help ease type of pain that are often chronic such as low-back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis/knee pain. It also may help reduce the frequency of tension headaches and prevent migraine headaches. Therefore, acupuncture appears to be a reasonable option for people with chronic pain to consider." Acupuncture has been identified to treat a wide variety of conditions and strengthening our overall response to ongoing stressors. Depending on your condition, Acupuncture may be used as a stand-alone or adjunct therapy along with primary care and or other therapeutic interventions. Changing our body functions is cumulative and happens over time. Acupuncture treatments equip you with a therapeutic tool to incorporate into your lifestyle to promote the longevity of your health by stimulating your natural ability to self-regulate and heal.
Q: Why choose a NCCAOM Board-Certified Licensed Acupuncturist?
A: Board-certified licensed acupuncturists are primary providers of traditional and modern acupuncture styles. Their extensive background and clinical experience at the master's and doctorate levels provide a strong foundation and firm understanding of how acupuncture can positively affect muscles, nerves, and physiology. Board-certified licensed acupuncturists take annual advanced education and a commitment to ethical business practices and professional conduct to ensure you are treated by someone qualified and committed to the acupuncture profession.
Q: What is the difference between a Dipl. O.M. and a Dipl. Ac.?
A: The main difference between a Dipl. O.M. and a Dipl. Ac. is that a Dipl. O.M. has an additional degree in herbal medicine. Both types of acupuncturists are board-certified and licensed to practice acupuncture.
Q: Are there any precautions I should take before getting acupuncture?
A: If you have high blood pressure higher than 160, you should wait to do acupuncture until it is under control. Additionally, acupuncture should not be done during a health crisis. We consider all cautions and contraindications, such as age, cancer, pregnancy, and chronic diseases, and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.