You can read this FAQ sequentially, or you can jump directly to whatever
interests you by selecting one of the links below:
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What is acupuncture?
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What is an "acupuncturist"?
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Do I have to choose between acupuncture and other types
of health care?
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What can I expect during my treatment?
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Can acupuncture needles spread disease?
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What is expected of me after treatment?
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How many treatments are needed?
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Will treatments be covered by my insurance?
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What kind of diseases can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is a method of treating illness that originated in China over 3,000 years ago, and is presently used as a primary health care system throughout the world. It is a method of balancing and building the body's life force energy, known as "qi" (pronounced "chee"). Acupuncturists recognize particular pathways called "meridians" thorough which this energy circulates. Traditional Chinese Medicine views disease as the result of an imbalance or blockage in the body's natural energy flow. Such imbalances manifest in physical, emotional, and psychosomatic stress-related disorders.
First of all, the practice of acupuncture itself is only a part
of the total health care you receive from practitioner of
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), usually known in this
country as an acupuncturist.
Your TCM practitioner is also trained and skilled in accupressure,
the use of Chinese herbs, nutrition, and the way energy flows
within our bodies.
I am a diplomate of an accredited school of oriental medicine,
having completed an intensive 3-year curriculum in all phases
of TCM.
I passed a comprehensive licensing exam, and have had over 10
years of experience in the practice of TCM.
I am backed up by a holistic medical tradition that stretches
back for more than 3,000 years.
Over that time, TCM has been refined and clarified, based on
observing what actually works, to the point where every
nuance is backed by millenia of knowledge and experience.
No, they can be integrated. In fact, each type of medicine has its own strengths, and all can contribute to your overall health and well-being.
Most people find an acupuncture treatment to be a quiet, restful time. A treatment normally begins with the practitioner's finding out how you are doing - how you're feeling, whether you have pain anywhere, what you expect from the treatment, etc. Then the practitioner will probably insert a number of tiny acupuncture needles into specific locations on your body, as indicated by your condition and your objectives for the treatment. After that, the practitioner will probably lower the lights and leave the room for a time, allowing you to rest with your needles in place, doing their work. Upon returning, the practitioner will carefully remove the needles, find out how you are doing after the treatment, and recommend herbs to help your condition until your next treatment.
Needles can only do this if they are re-used, and I use only sterile, disposable, single-use needles.
Ideally, you should rest after an acupuncture treatment. In addition, following the suggestions that I will make in the course of your treatment will expedite the healing process and your general good health.
This is determined by many factors, such as how long you have
had the condition you need help with.
I will discuss this with you at the first visit, once I have
learned about your situation.
One thing I've discovered, though - how quickly your problem
clears up depends strongly on how well you take care of
yourself (diet, exercise, not smoking, etc.).
Some insurance companies are covering acupuncture at this time. Unfortunately, not very many of them do. The best thing to do is to check with your insurance company about their coverage.
Acupuncture can help your body heal almost any disease process; it does this by helping your body regain its natural balance. (And by the way, regaining your natural balance will help you feel healthier and happier in general.)
For people in the Austin area who have specific questions
about acupuncture or traditional Chinese medicine,
or to discuss an appointment for treatment or consultation,
send Christine an e-mail message
or call Blue Heron Acupuncture at 512-330-9998 in Austin.