I have been a practitioner of Five Element acupuncture and Zero Balancing for over 20 years.
I received a Master of Acupuncture from the Traditional Acupuncture Institute in Columbia, Maryland (now the Maryland University of Integrated Health). The degree also included coursework at the College of Traditional Acupuncture in the U.K.
I have continued to study Five Element acupuncture extensively since 1996, through formal workshops and self-study, to deepen my understanding of this system of healing.
More and more insurance companies are covering acupuncture treatment. I will be happy to discuss this further with you if you call my office.
Acupuncture treatment is a process because it treats the root of the problem. Symptoms that have been around longer will take longer to clear. Therefore, conditions that have arisen over many years may be relieved with slow, steady progress. When there is significant improvement, treatments can be spaced out to every other week, monthly and seasonally. Frequency of treatment varies with each individual.
Acupuncture needles are single-use sterile needles. The needles are extremely fine, barely beyond the thickness of a human hair. The needles are a fraction of the size of a hypodermic needle. They are so thin, clients rarely feel them entering the skin. When the needle connects with an acupuncture point, there may be a brief sensation of heat, buzzing or pressure, at the site, or another part of the body.
Yes, tell your doctor that you are in acupuncture treatment. Today, most doctors recognize the potential benefits of acupuncture and many refer their patients for treatment. Acupuncture is a complement to western medical care. All medications need to stay the same, unless you and your doctor agree to shift them.
There are no known side effects of acupuncture.
You don't have to feel sick to receive benefits from acupuncture treatment. People often come who want to further their own personal growth. Some choose acupuncture in times of major life transitions, such as job changes, divorce, or death of a loved one.