FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQ
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has been used for over 3000 years as a method of supporting the body and mind in their own natural healing processes.
According to TCM theory, a state of disease occurs as a result of an imbalance or ‘blockage’ in the body’s natural energy flow. Acupuncture works directly with this energy or ‘Qi’ by inserting fine, sterile needles into specific spots or ‘acu-points’ on the body to help move blocked areas, relieving pain and restoring balance to the body.
In terms of Western physiology, the latest research shows us that this ancient concept of ‘Qi’ or energy flow corresponds to nerve transmission, connective tissue planes, various metabolic components transported via the blood like oxygen, hormones, nutrients and neurotransmitters, as well as various functions of organ systems. Acupuncture has been demonstrated to regulate and improve the function of all of these components, resulting in decreased pain and improved overall health. Read more here.
What does a typical course of treatment look like?
We’ll start by scheduling a short phone call to discuss what you want to work on, how I might be able to help and get you scheduled for a new patient appointment.
The initial treatment will be a longer 90 minute appointment. Since Traditional Chinese Medicine is a whole body medicine, this will allow enough time to go over your entire health history in detail. Based on this discussion and a short physical exam (pulse, tongue and abdominal palpation), Dana will select the appropriate acupuncture points plus any other modality that she believes will be beneficial (cupping, myofascial release or ‘gua sha’, moxibustion, dietary and supplement recommendations, etc…). At this appointment she will also outline a treatment plan. Follow ups are 60 minutes.
Does Acupuncture hurt? / Is it safe?
Acupuncture is performed with single-use, sterile needles that are extremely thin. Most people feel little to no pain when they are inserted. In fact, patients often report a feeling of deep relaxation during or after the treatment. Occasionally, the needles may cause temporary soreness and even more rarely a small bruise. When performed by a knowledgeable and Licensed Acupuncturist, it is an extremely safe treatment with minimal risks or negative side effects.
How long until I see results?
This depends. Typically, if you’re in pretty good health and your issue is new or acute it usually takes fewer treatments to see results, while more complex, longstanding and chronic problems may need a longer course of treatment. Dana likes to remind her patients that nothing is a one hit wonder. Traditional Chinese Medicine is a gentle, cumulative medicine, so it will take some time and commitment. She usually recommends 5-6 treatments a week apart to start seeing some improvement in symptoms and overall health (digestion, sleep, mood, energy level). Patients are encouraged to keep a journal or notes with their progress / symptoms.
I feel well - should I still come in for treatments?
Many people are unaware that acupuncture is also a great preventative medicine! Even if you’re feeling well, treatments can be utilized for monthly or seasonal immune boosting / wellness ’tune ups’. Additionally, if we’ve resolved a particular issue, it’s still important to come in every so often for maintenance to keep symptoms under control rather than waiting until things are dire.
Does everyone get the same treatment?
Dana works in partnership with her patients to provide one-on-one individualized care. Seeing only one patient at at time allows her to really customize each session; NO one size treatment fits all.
Working hand in hand with each patient, Dana helps tap into the body’s innate ability to heal itself, focusing on both the ‘root’ of the problem as well as the manifesting symptoms. Her gentle, yet powerful style of treatment is effective at reducing pain and inflammation while also bringing a sense of balance and well-being to the body and mind.
How Can I Best Prepare for my Appointment
Make sure when you schedule your appointment that you are not engaged in too stressful of an event or activity before or afterwards and try not to overbook yourself on the day of your appointment. The goal is for you to be as relaxed as possible during the actual treatment. Also, please read ALL of the office info and details in the initial new patient email, fill out the paperwork and be sure to bring a list of all of your current medications and supplements. Lastly, don’t forget to eat something light one to two hours prior to your appointment to avoid any possibility of light headedness on an empty stomach.
What should I expect after my treatment?
It is common to feel a little tired or just super relaxed after treatment and if you are able to rest following your session, it is strongly encouraged. It may take a few days for the treatment to integrate and for you to notice any changes, so Dana will call two to three days after the initial treatment to check in.
