Acupuncture FAQ
Many people are uncomfortable with Acupuncture because of a fear of needles. However, Acupuncture needles bear little resemblance to the needles used by medical doctors. Acupuncture needles are about as thick as a hair and are quite flexible, while conventional needles must be thick enough for liquid to move through. Since our needles are so thin, the experience of being needled is totally unique and rarely unpleasant. 
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Acupuncture hurt? As stated above the feeling of an Acupuncture needle is unique. It is often described as feeling like a mosquito bite, a very heavy sensation at the site, or a deep feeling of heat.
What can Acupuncture treat? For this I defer to the Conditions Treated section that you can access using the navigation bar above. In summary; chronic and acute pain, internal disorders, women's health issues, mental and emotional problems, disease and medication side effects.
How many sessions do I have to have before I will feel better? The answer to this depends very heavily on the nature of the problem. To give Acupuncture enough time to build on itself and do its work, approximately 4 - 6 visits are required. Problems that have arisen rather acutely can see improvement within the first few treatments, while long standing disorders may take longer for your body to balance.
How often do I have to come? Typically, once a week is the best schedule. In cases where the symptoms are rather acute, and also in cases of detoxifying the body (like smoking cessation), 2 - 3 times a week can be required.
Does insurance cover Acupuncture? For third party insurers such as Blue Cross and Aetna, the unfortunate answer is generally no for all of the state of Pennsylvania. Some insurance policies, however, do belong to a group called American Specialty Health Networks which enable their members to get discounts off of alternative medicine services. Check with your benefits coordinator to see if you qualify. Additionally, if your benefits are currently being paid by Workman's Compensation or from an Auto Accident Insurance then the answer is YES, you are covered.
Where do the needles go? The places most needled are from your elbows down to your hands, and from your knees down to your feet. Extra needles may be placed on your abdomen, back and ears, depending on your treatment.
Are the needles sterile or are they reused? Every needle used in this country is a sterile, single use needle. Each needle is used one time and then immediately placed in a biohazard container. We do not reuse needles.
Are there any side effects to Acupuncture? Basically the answer is no. Some people feel really energized after a treatment, others feel so relaxed they are ready for a nap. The worst thing that can happen to you from an Acupuncture needle is a hematoma or a bruise. However, the needles are so thin that even when placed right at an artery or vein, the needles manage to go around them and bounce off the arterial walls.
What are the acupoints? The acupoints are the major areas on a meridian where the energy flows closer to the surface and can therefore be more easily manipulated by the use of needle or pressure.
What are the meridians? There are 12 major meridians in the body and many extras. Each of the 12 main meridians are connected to an internal organ and provides its respective organ with energy and blood. When the energy in the meridians are not moving properly, they can in turn effect the proper functioning of the organs. This is what we are treating by using TCM.
How does Acupuncture work? The answer is we have no idea. There are many theories to Acupuncture's affect on the body, but nothing is actually known. The major current theories involve either the release of endorphins, or the excitation of the nerve and lymphatic system.