What to Expect
“The competent physician, before he attempts to give medicine to the patient, makes himself acquainted not only with the disease, but also with the habits and constitution of the sick man.”
– Cicero
What is Chinese Medicine?
Chinese medicine is a complete system of healing that dates back approximately 2600 years. Most scholars believe the medicine was codified in the Han dynasty and has continued to be refined over the centuries. Most people in the West are familiar with acupuncture, but acupuncture is just one of the many tools in the TCM toolbox: Lifestyle/Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Movement Therapies (Qigong & Tai Ji) Cupping, Moxibustion, Bodywork, and the contemplative arts (meditation) are all part of Chinese medicine.
The underlying principle that connects all of this is that, when we live in a balanced way, health and wellness are our natural homeodynamic state. This encompasses the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of ourselves. Chinese medicine does not see these aspects as separate but rather as parts of a whole that interact, communicate and affect each other. This dynamic balance is symbolized by Yin & Yang.
Because the ancient Chinese were an agrarian culture they observed this balance and interaction in nature and the cosmos. They wisely surmised that humans, in a healthy state, should reflect this same balance.
How do we treat disease?
This is the part of Chinese medicine that people new to it find intriguing and fascinating.
We do not treat the disease! We treat patterns of disharmony in an individual that has brought forth a dis-ease. If I were to see ten patients all having headaches, all ten would likely have a different pattern of disharmony that led to the headache. Once that pattern is uncovered through differential diagnosis, a treatment principle and subsequent treatment plan can be deployed that will treat the individual patient. Beyond treating specific issues, many people find that having maintenance or “tune-up” treatments optimizes their physiology in a way that vitality, sleep, digestion, stress levels and state of mind are all improved.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
It has been my experience as a patient, and my observation as a clinician that it is the anticipation rather than the needling that can cause some people distress.
Most of the time people may experience a slight pinch that quickly goes away. Each Acu-point has its own quality. Some feel warm, some heavy, some are very active but, in the vast majority of cases, there is no significant pain. Usually within 5-10 minutes the “fight or flight” aspect of the nervous system is turned off and the ‘“rest and digest” is turned on. I have observed many of my patient’s breathing patterns slow down, the resonance of the voice changes, the eyes are clear and most people fall into a restful sleep or as I like to say they visit “Acu-land”.
How soon will I see results?
This varies from patient to patient and depends on what they are being treated for. Issues related to pain (Joint pain, headaches, muscle pain etc) usually respond quite fast. It is not uncommon for someone to come in for knee pain and start to feel relief after only a few needles are inserted. Other issues that are systemic in nature—like endocrine, menses, digestion or chronic issues that are long standing—can take a longer series of treatments to resolve. The amazing thing about this medicine is that, even in those cases, people feel better rather quickly.
How often will I need treatment?
This will differ for each patient. Acupuncture is a modality that has a cumulative effect. With that, if people are suffering with acute conditions they may need several treatments within a short period of time. It is not uncommon in China for people to get acupuncture daily or every other day when dealing with acute conditions. In the USA that may not be possible due to financial or scheduling restraints. As a general principle, the more often the better for the initial few weeks and as time passes and the patient improves visits are at longer intervals.
Do you take insurance?
I do not take insurance. I am happy to provide you with a super bill with ICD codes that you may be able to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
What types of payment do you accept?
Payments are expected at the conclusion of treatment via Cash, Venmo, Zelle, Check. Credit cards coming soon.
What is your cancellation policy?
I maintain a 24 hour cancellation policy. Treatment times, especially at particular days/time slots, are in high demand. No-shows prevent other people from being able to get treatments. Patients who miss appointments and do not provide 24 hour notice of cancellation will be charged for the full cost of the visit.
Late arrivals
I will always do my best to accommodate late arrivals. Depending on room availability and patient scheduling, it may not be possible to extend past allotted appointment time.
