Acupuncture

Traditional Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture and what does it do?

Acupuncture is a system of health care that has been developed, refined, and practiced in China for over thousands of years. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on or near the surface of the skin, called acupuncture points. These points have high concentrations of nerve endings, mast cells, lymphatics and capillaries, all capable of triggering biochemical and physiological changes in the body. Acupuncture can release neurotransmitters and endorphins, the body’s natural pain-killing hormones. Endorphins play a significant role in the hormonal system, which is why acupuncture is effective in treating back pain, arthritis, PMS and infertility. Acupuncture is also used to release substances that relax the body and regulate serotonin, which affects emotions. Other physiological effects include increased circulation, decreased inflammation, easing of muscle spasms and increased T-cell count, which supports the immune system.

Does it hurt?

I use fine Japanese needles and our needling methods are virtually painless, relaxing, and extremely comfortable. Some patients experience a warmth or a tingling sensation when needles are inserted in the acupuncture points.

I’d like to receive care but am terrified of needles. Do you have treatments that do not involve needles?

Yes. I also stimulate the points using tuning forks on the acupuncture points. This is a painless option that is almost as effective as needle acupuncture. Sound will stimulate the point but it may take more time to see results.

Is acupuncture safe?

When performed by a licensed and properly trained practitioner, acupuncture is arguably the safest form of alternative health care available.

Do you use disposable needles?

Yes, I ONLY use disposable needles.

Is acupuncture compatible with the care that my Medical Doctor provides?

Yes, but please consult your physician if you have any doubts on this matter. Patients are told that it is never required nor recommended that they discontinue regular care from their physician. I work with conventional medicine and not against it.

What will I feel during an acupuncture session?

The most common feeling patients have during acupuncture is one of profound relaxation. Some patients feel a pleasant sensation of warmth in their body, and others feel nothing other than relief of the pain that they came in with.

What problems can be treated by acupuncture?

The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture’s effectiveness for over 40 common disorders, such as:

Musculoskeletal disorders

Back pain, neck pain, sciatica, arthritis, tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, TMJ, carpel tunnel syndrome, knee pain, plantar fascitis, sports injuries

Neurological Disorders

Paralysis, nerve damage, loss of strength, severe chronic pain, sensory loss, tremors, bell’s palsy, degenerative nervous system disorders (MS, ALS, Parkinson’s, etc.), eye and vision disorders, hearing loss, restless leg syndrome, trauma and injury rehabilitation.

Gynecological disorders

Infertility, endometriosis, PMS, menstrual irregularity, menstrual cramps, menopausal syndrome, urinary tract infections, yeast infections

Endocrine/Hormonal disorders

Hypothyroid, hyperthyroid, chronic fatigue, adrenal exhaustion, diabetes, loss of libido, sexual dysfunction (male and female), anxiety disorder, panic attacks.

Gastrointestinal disorders

Indigestion, IBS, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, ulcers, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome

Immune and Autoimmune disorders

Allergies, bronchitis, asthma, emphysema/COPD, eczema, psoriasis

Circulatory disorders

Hypertension, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, angina pectoris

Chemotherapy and Radiation Support

Treatment of nausea, fatigue, constipation, pain, and other side effects of conventional cancer treatments.

How many treatments will I need?

That depends on the duration, severity, and nature of your complaint. You may need only a single treatment for an acute condition. A series of treatments may resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis may require many treatments over time. To help reduce the number of treatments, I will often suggest specific nutritional supplements, Chinese herbal remedies, and dietary modifications all of which will help to increase the efficacy of acupuncture and accelerate the healing process. I may also make lifestyle recommendations to assist your healing.

Is there anything I need to do before receiving an acupuncture treatment?

There are four things that you can do to help you get the most benefit from your treatment:

1. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and if possible light colored clothing. Women should avoid wearing one piece dresses or tight stockings. Men should avoid wearing suits or dress shirts to their appointment.
2. Do not bring your cell phone into the treatment room or at the very least turn it off before entering the office. Having the phone ring during an acupuncture session takes away from the effect of the healing and is distracting to both the Doctor and the patient.
3. Relax and open yourself up for healing. Every treatment is individually tailored to fit the patient’s comfort level and needs.
4. Eat a light meal or a snack before your treatment. A person who has not eaten may feel lightheaded or weak when receiving an acupuncture treatment. Do not engage in strenuous activity, drink alcohol, smoke excessively, or ingest heavy meals before or after your treatment. This will allow the body to adjust to the effects of the acupuncture

How long are the sessions?

First session please allow 45-60 minutes.  Each session thereafter  is 30 minutes.

I’d like to begin treatment, how do I get started?

Call the office at (786) 592-0105 to set up a time for an initial evaluation and assessment:

I believe that:

• The right condition for self-healing involves four things:
  • Detoxifying the body of toxic chemicals and cellular waste while supporting the elimination organs such as the liver, kidneys, and bowels.
  • Correcting individual nutrient deficiencies that are not allowing the body to function at an optimal level. This also includes supporting digestion and the absorptive abilities of the body.
  • Harmonizing the self-communication grids of the body so that the vitally important function of intercellular communication can happen normally, and the body can begin to heal itself. This is done through correcting the flow of energy in the acupuncture meridians. We believe that the body is programmed by the Creator to survive and self-regenerate. It is only when the internal communication lines (manifested through the acupuncture meridians) are disturbed that the body does not perform the function of self-regeneration.
  • An open mind, heart & spirit to allow for health, healing and well-being.
• To accomplish the above three goals, we use a combination of three healing modalities:
  • Acupuncture, Sound and Color
  • Nutritional Therapy – using both dietary changes and whole-food supplements.
  • Chinese Herbal Medicine which is designed to restore proper communication lines within the body.

Do you accept any insurances? No

I do not participate in any forms of health care insurance, HMO, PPO, Workman’s Comp, No-Fault, etc.
If your insurance plan covers acupuncture (which some do), I will provide you with an itemized superbill receipt at the end of each office visit. You can then submit this bill to your insurance provider. If your plan covers acupuncture, your provider will reimburse you directly. However, it is your responsibility to know the extent of your insurance coverage as it relates to acupuncture.

I look forward to assisting you in your journey to recovery, health &  healing.