Skip to content

Acupuncture Q & A

Here’s our Acupuncture Q & A

We have answered some common questions about acupuncture below. Call us if you have other questions or if you are interested in naturally improving your life with acupuncture treatments. 763.421.2807


 

How Are Acupuncturists Educated?

Today, acupuncturists undertake three to four years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in every state.  In Minnesota, acupuncturists are licensed by the Medical Board.

How Do I Schedule My Acupuncture Appointment?

Online: Book Your Acupuncture Treatment

Phone: 763.421.2807

In Person: 710 East River Road, Anoka, MN 55303

Our dedicated team is here to help you relieve your pain. We recommend that you make your appointments well in advance. The clinic is typically very busy on evenings and weekends. Although we do our best to accommodate your schedule, it may be difficult to arrange for same day services.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes.

Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors: your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem and the quality and quantity of your Qi. An acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week, or monthly visits for health maintenance and seasonal “tune ups”.

How much does it cost?

Join our ….beyond wellness membership to feel better faster while saving money on your Acupuncture treatments.

MEMBER NON-MEMBER SAVINGS!
Acupuncture $78 $85 $7
Acupuncture Package of 6 $420 $450 $30

Massage prices in Anoka, MN

Call today for an appointment that will put you on the road to a pain free and more vital life! 763.421.2807 or Book Online 24 hours a day!

How Safe Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects just feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.

How should I prepare?

  • Write down and bring any questions you have. We are here to help you.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
  • Do not eat large meals just before or after
    your visit.
  • Refrain from overexertion, working out, drugs or alcohol for up to six hours after the visit.
  • Avoid stressful situations. Make time to relax, and be sure to get plenty of rest.
  • Between visits, take notes of any changes that may have occurred, such as the alleviation of pain, pain moving to other areas, or changes in the frequency and type of problems.

Intake Form

If you are visiting our acupuncturist for the first time please submit the appropriate online intake form prior to your visit.

Is acupuncture safe for children?

Yes. In some instances children actually respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure or tuina.

Is There Research on Acupuncture?

Modern Research & Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been employed as a health care modality for over 3,000 years. Modern science has begun to understand the secrets of this ancient medicine with the support of new studies conducted by leading scientists, hospitals, and medical research facilities from all over the world. Today, acupuncture is receiving wide acceptance as a respected, valid and effective form of health care.

According to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, 51% of medical doctors understand the efficacy and value of acupuncture, and medical doctors refer patients to acupuncturists more than any other alternative care provider.1

In Canada, a 2008 study conducted by the Institute for Work & Health concluded that low back pain, the most common musculoskeletal problem, can be relieved by acupuncture massage, called Tui Na, more effectively than any other treatment.2

A German study published in Archives of Internal Medicine in 2007 covered the largest and most rigorous trial ever undertaken to investigate the analgesic effects of acupuncture versus traditional medical approaches to relieve lower back pain. This study involved 1,802 patients and 13,475 treatments and concluded that acupuncture “constituted a strong treatment alternative to multimodal conventional therapy, giving physicians a promising and effective treatment option for chronic lower back pain.” 3

In addition to its effectiveness in pain control, acupuncture has a proven track record of treating a variety of endocrine, circulatory and systemic conditions.

The British Medical Journal in 2008 reported that acupuncture can increase the success rate of in-vitro fertilization and increase the number of viable pregnancies. The additional benefits were listed as reduction in nausea and muscle pain associated with both IVF and pregnancy in general without the use of drugs that might harm the growing fetus.5

In Sweden, a 2008 study involving 215 cancer patients proved that acupuncture can eliminate the need for additional drugs and reduce nausea suffered during radiation treatments.4

A 2007 study from the University of Heidelberg in Germany concluded that acupuncture treatments can not only relieve the pain associated with bronchial asthma but also help to control outbreaks of allergic asthma as well. It became clearly evident that “acupuncture performed in accordance with the principles of traditional Chinese medicine showed significant immune-modulating effects.” 6

“There is sufficient evidence of acupuncture’s value to expand its use into conventional medicine.”
– National Institute of Health, 1997 Consensus on Acupuncture

Current Theories On The Mechanism Of Acupuncture:

  1. Neurotransmitter Theory: Acupuncture affects higher brain areas, stimulating the secretion of beta-endorphins and enkephalins in the brain and spinal cord. The release of neurotransmitters influences the immune system and the antinociceptive system.7,8,9
  2. Autonomic Nervous System Theory: Acupuncture stimulates the release of norepinephrine, acetylcholine and several types of opioids, affecting changes in their turnover rate, normalizing the autonomic nervous system, and reducing pain.10,11
  3. Vascular-interstitial Theory: Acupuncture effects the electrical system of the body by creating or enhancing closed-circuit transport in tissues. This facilitates healing by allowing the transfer of material and electrical energy between normal and injured tissues.9
  4. Blood Chemistry Theory: Acupuncture affects the blood concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, and phospholipids, suggesting that acupuncture can both raise and diminish peripheral blood components, thereby regulating the body toward homeostasis.9
  5. Gate Control Theory: Acupuncture activates non-nociceptive receptors that inhibit the transmission of nociceptive signals in the dorsal horn, “gating out” painful stimuli.12

This ancient health care system is proving itself as an effective modality for a wide variety of problems. So much so that the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) awarded 8 grants that directly relate to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and traditional Chinese medical research, totaling more than $9.5 million dollars.

The Science of Acupuncture _ BBC Documentary _ Traditional Chinese Medicine

This is an amazing BBC documentary about acupuncture, an ancient Chinese therapy.
As part of the documentary, you will see an young women having an open heart surgery without any anesthetics, just acupuncture, a 2000 years old healing method. You will also see how it helps to treat migraines and many other conditions.Millions people have started believing that acupuncture works better than conventional medicine .This documentary explains about astonishing healing power of acupuncture and its booming market in western world.

Resources:
  1. “A review of the incorporation of complementary and alternative medicine by mainstream physicians”, Astin, JA., et. al., Arch Intern Med., 1998; (158).
  2. The Institute for Work & Health, “Massage for Lower Back Pain”, Spine, 2009, July 15: 34 (16).
  3. “German Acupuncture Trials (GERAC) for Chronic Lower Back Pain”, Archives of Internal Medicine, 2007; 167(17).
  4. Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, “Acupuncture Just as Effective Without Needle Puncture”, Science Daily, December 1, 2008, study conducted by the at Linkoping University and the Vardal Institute in Sweden.
  5. “Effects of Acupuncture of Pregnancy and Live Births Among Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”, British Medical Journal, 2008: 336: 545, published February 7, 2008.
  6. “Immunomodulatory Effects of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Allergic Asthma: A Randomized Controlled Study”, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Vol 6, Issue 6, 2007.
  7. Neuro-acupuncture, “Scientific evidence of acupuncture revealed”, Cho, ZH., et al., 2001.
  8. Acupuncture – A scientific appraisal, Ernst, E., White, A., 1999, p. 74.
  9. Acupuncture Energetics, “A Clinical Approach for Physicians”, Helms, Dr. J., 1997, pgs 41-42, 66.
  10. Anatomy of Neuro-Anatomical Acupuncture, Volume 1, Wong, Dr. J., 1999, p. 34.
  11. National Institute of Health Consensus Conference on Acupuncture, “Acupuncture Activates Endogenous Systems of Analgesia.”, Han, J.S., 1997 (Bethesda, MD).
  12. Neuro-acupuncture, “Scientific Evidence of Acupuncture Revealed”, Cho, ZH., et al., p.116.

What can acupuncturists treat?

Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems. Below are some of the health concerns that acupuncture can effectively treat:

  • Addiction
  • Anxiety
  • Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Bronchitis
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Colitis
  • Common cold
  • Constipation
  • Dental pain
  • Depression
  • Diarrhea
  • Digestive trouble
  • Dizziness
  • Dysentery
  • Emotional problems
  • Eye problems
  • Facial palsy
  • Fatigue
  • Fertility
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Gingivitis
  • Headache
  • Hiccough
  • Incontinence
  • Indigestion
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Low back pain
  • Menopause
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Migraine
  • Morning sickness
  • Nausea
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Pain
  • PMS
  • Pneumonia
  • Reproductive problems
  • Rhinitis
  • Sciatica
  • Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
  • Shoulder pain
  • Sinusitis
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Smoking cessation
  • Sore throat
  • Stress
  • Tennis elbow
  • Tonsillitis
  • Tooth pain
  • Trigeminal neuralgia
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Vomiting
  • Wrist pain

Read More. . . 

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy.

An acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on the body. This activates the body’s Qi and promotes natural healing by enhancing recuperative power, immunity and physical and emotional health. It also can improve overall function and well-being. It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.

Read more . . . 

What is Chinese Medicine?

We offer a wide variety of services based on Oriental Medicine principles.  Please see the links below for detailed information on each modality.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used forms of medicine in the world. Originating in China more than 4,000 years ago, acupuncture is currently one of the most widely researched, practiced, and respected forms of complementary medicine in the U.S.

According to Chinese Medicine, your overall health is determined by the quality of the Qi (pronounced, “chee,” meaning vital energy or the interplay of physiological processes) flow through the natural pathways of your body.  Acupuncture uses a variety of techniques, including placing very thin sterile needles into specific points on the body, to stimulate and improve your Qi flow. The many benefits of this type of therapy include:

  • Pain reduction
  • Relaxation of body and mind
  • Stress and tension relief
  • Increased blood circulation
  • Increased energy levels
  • Aids with digestion and toxin removal
  • Improved internal organ function
  • Relief from bad habits and addictions
  • Greater sense of overall well-being

Acupuncture can treat disorders such as:

  • Gynecological
  • Digestive
  • Ear, nose, throat, head, and face
  • Neurological
  • Upper respiratory
  • Urinary and reproductive
  • Immune function
  • Addictions
  • Cardiopulmonary
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Insomnia

Herbal Medicine

Herbal Medicine is the therapeutic use of plants, and is one of the oldest and most widely used forms of health care in the world.  Depending on your specific needs, we prescribe herbs that produce and contain a variety of chemical and energetic substances that act upon the body.  Different herbs have been effectively used for a wide range of medicinal purposes including pain relief, hormone balancing, sleep enhancement, improved digestion, skin soothing, and stress relief.

Oriental Bodywork

Oriental bodywork aims to restore and balance the flow of energy (Qi) throughout your body. It uses gentle hand and finger pressure along specific points and energy pathways (meridians) on your body to encourage your body’s innate healing abilities to be stimulated. There are many forms of Oriental bodywork that all share a common foundation in Chinese Medicine. They simply differ in their use of specific techniques to balance your energy.  Some examples of Oriental bodywork are: tuina, acupressure, shiatsu, cupping therapy, Thai massage, reiki, and qigong.

Cupping Massage

Cupping massage therapy is a process by which a vacuum is created in a thick glass jar which is then attached to the skin via suction.  It is most often used on the back or other areas where large muscles are present.

During a cupping massage, the cups are pleasantly glided across the muscles on oiled skin, while maintaining suction.  The process is therapeutic, relaxing, and feels wonderful!

In medical terms, cupping brings healthy blood flow into the muscles and encourages waste products to be more effectively eliminated via the lymph system and other routes.  This process nourishes the body’s tissues which reduces the build-up of cellular wastes, promotes tissue healing, assists the body’s natural detoxification processes, reduces inflammation, and helps to dissolve areas of knots and adhesions. The suction action on the skin and soft tissues encourages circulation and thus, the body’s ability to heal itself.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine terms, cupping moves “qi and blood” and can help alleviate pain and areas of stagnation.  (You can think of stagnation as areas where tissues and body fluids have become stuck). Using Chinese medical theory, the cups are also used over specific acupuncture points, selected based upon your unique body.

Cupping has a long history of therapeutic use in most cultures throughout the world and is frequently used based on both Asian and European traditions.

After a session there may be a harmless area of reddened or purplish skin present which will dissipate over time.  This redness is actually a positive sign that the therapy is working as it’s supposed to.

Tuina Massage

Tuina (pronounced, twee-nah) is a highly therapeutic bodywork modality based on traditional Chinese medical theory, dating back to about 1700 B.C. It is a Chinese form of medical massage and rehabilitative therapy used widely today in hopitals in China as a type of physical therapy. Tuina is based on the same principles as acupuncture. Although most commonly used with musculoskeletal pain and injuries, because it is based on Oriental medicine, it can also help with digestive disorders, infertility, insomnia, depression, anxiety and more.

After a detailed intake and assessment of your situation, customized tuina techniques will combine massage manipulations with range of motion movements, passive stretching, and acupressure to treat your specific pattern.  Cupping and herbal therapies may also be used in some instances.  You may also be given exercises based on tai chi and qigong to do at home. Please dress in loose, comfortable clothing for your appointment.  Depending on the area(s) of concern you may or may not need to disrobe.

What to Expect

During the initial exam a full health history is taken. Questions are asked regarding health, symptoms and lifestyle. An appropriate physical exam is conducted, including pulse and tongue diagnosis.

Gathering this information enables the practitioner to effectively diagnose and detect any specific imbalances of Qi that may have contributed to a persons health problems. The practitioner can then create a well-structured treatment plan.

Once the imbalances of Qi are detected, an acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints along meridian pathways. This safe and painless insertion of the needles can unblock the obstruction and balance Qi where it has become unbalanced. Once this is done, Qi can freely circulate throughout the body, providing adequate nourishment to cells, organs, glands, tissues and muscles. This can eliminate pain and restore balance and harmony, as well as the body’s ability to heal itself—ultimately leading to optimal health and well-being.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine is a safe, effective and drug-free therapy that can help address a wide variety of common ailments and problems.

 

Read more. . . 

What will my acupuncturist do?

During the initial exam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms, health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment. Visits with your acupuncturist may last from thirty to
ninety minutes.

Why did my acupuncturist recommend herbs?

Herbs can be a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They are used to strengthen, build and support the body or to clear it of excess problems like a cold, fever or acute pain. Your practitioner may suggest starting with herbs and then adding acupuncture to your treatment in the future. This is suggested to build up your internal strength so you can receive the full benefits acupuncture has to offer.

Why do they want to feel my pulse?

There are twelve pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for twenty-seven individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.

Why do they want to look at my tongue?

The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.

Will my Health Insurance cover acupuncture?

Insurance coverage for Acupuncture varies from provider to provider. We are happy to give you an itemized receipt for your treatment so that you can self submit to your insurance provider.

If you contact your insurance provider here are a few questions to ask to learn what kind of care is covered:

  • Will my plan cover acupuncture?
  • Does my plan have out of network coverage for acupuncture?
  • How many visits are covered per calendar year?
  • Do I need a referral?
  • Do I have a deductible?
  • If yes, has it been met?

As of 3/1/22 we will no longer be billing health insurance for acupuncture treatments.

Your First Visit

 

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
– Lao-tzu

Initial visits generally last from 30 to 90 minutes. Your acupuncturist will take a detailed health history, perform a physical exam, and provide you with your unique treatment plan. If you are visiting our acupuncturist for the first time please submit this online intake form prior to your visit.

During your first exam, your acupuncturist will spend time getting to know you and your health concerns. You may be asked a wide range of questions about your symptoms, eating, exercise, sleep habits, emotional states and anything that may offer insight into your health.

Your practitioner will also employ diagnostic tools that are unique to acupuncture and TCM such as tongue and pulse diagnosis.

Your Treatment Plan

Once your acupuncturist has gathered enough information, you’ll receive a comprehensive diagnosis and a treatment plan that will explain:

  • Your underlying imbalances
  • Your time line of care
  • What types of treatment you will receive

Getting The Most Out Of Treatment

For the best treatment results, keep a few things in mind:

  • Please show up on time
  • Don’t eat a large meal before your visit
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothes
  • Be sure to discuss any questions or concerns with your acupuncturist
  • Refrain from overexertion, drugs or alcohol for at least six hours after treatment
  • Follow your treatment plan between visits
  • Keep all of your appointments, as each visit builds upon the previous ones

How Treatment Works

To treat any Qi imbalances, fine, sterile needles will be inserted at specific acupuncture points along the meridian pathways. Your acupuncturist will concentrate on acupuncture points related to specific organs, based on your unique issues and symptoms.

Your acupuncturist may include other related therapies in your treatment plan, such as cupping, Gwa Sha or moxabustion. Herbal remedies are another important aspect of acupuncture and TCM, and it is important to understand and follow your practitioner’s directions in order to get the most benefit from these treatments.

Your Role In The Healing Process

Your actions are a key component of your treatment plan. Focusing on your health and committing to a healthy lifestyle are the best steps you can take for your well-being. Together, you and your acupuncturist can heal your imbalances and help you achieve harmony and balance.

Even after your symptoms are resolved, acupuncture can assist you in maintaining your health, and possibly prevent future imbalances. The more you incorporate acupuncture and TCM into your life, the more you’ll learn to nurture your body, mind and spirit.

Acupuncture is not an instant fix.

True healing takes time and dedication. Depending on your current health and symptoms, you could feel better right away, or you may need treatments for weeks, months or years to achieve the results you want. Your acupuncturist can give you an idea of what to expect. With a little patience and an open mind, you’ll be on your way to health and vitality.

Acupuncture and TCM offer a safe and effective holistic health care system. This natural approach can both resolve symptoms and enhance your overall health.

By taking the right steps and planting the seeds of health, you are on the road to a healthier you!

763-421-2807 Directions Contact/Schedule