What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of specialized needles into the skin, at particular points on the body and to certain depths, to affect change and bring the body into a state of balance.
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a 2000 year old system of medicine developed by Chinese doctors who observed and recorded the points that best treat various conditions of the body. They've charted the body with meridians and points that correspond to particular systems and organs. In addition to acupuncture, TCM uses modalities of herbal therapy, cupping, guasha (a scraping technique), tuina (a type of therapeutic massage), moxabustion (an herbal heat therapy), and food therapy to assist in bringing the body into a balanced state.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture needles inserted into the body will cause micro-traumas to the tissues which stimulate the body to heal itself. An acupuncturist will look for systems and substances that are out of balance. They’ll ask about the history of the condition and a lot of background questions to develop a picture of your state of health. They’ll look at your tongue and feel your pulses to assess the overall condition of your body and relate it to any health concerns to develop a diagnosis and treatment plan. They think about yin and yang, which are the two forces that intermingle to create balance in the body, Qi which is the life force of the body, and blood which nourishes the body. They also consider different characteristics of the organs in the body and how they interact with each other and how they might be affected by yin, yang, qi and blood. Then they choose the best points to treat the condition and usually leave the needles in for about 30 minutes.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are different from injection needles because they are solid, as fine as hair, and can slide easily through body tissues. Most people feel little sensation, while some may feel a small pinch on insertion. While you are resting with needles, you may have a heavy sensation that is not uncomfortable, and this is favorable for healing. You are encouraged to let your practitioner know if you are having any discomfort. Usually an acupuncture treatment is a very relaxing process.
Are acupuncture needles sterile?
Acupuncture needles are specially packaged in sterile, single-use packaging. After needles are pulled they are disposed into a sharps container, which is professionally disposed of after the sharps container is full. Acupuncture needles are never re-used.
What is CranioSacral Therapy?
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a type of bodywork that treats several conditions through the use of very gentle manipulation of the bones of the head, spine, sacrum, and extending into the limbs, by the intentional light touch of hands. This therapeutic treatment may be used in conjunction with your acupuncture treatment.
How do I prepare for my first appointment?
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Fill out paperwork online if you are able, or arrive 10 minutes early to complete the paperwork.
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Bring a copy of recent medical reports.
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Bring a list of medications and supplements that you are taking.
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Bring a list of questions you may have.
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Dress comfortably, wearing loose clothing that can be moved up past knees or elbows. Medical gowns are available as necessary.
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Eat something and use the restroom before you arrive.
Can you treat my condition?
TCM is a whole and complete system of healthcare and can be helpful for most conditions that are acute, or chronic. Chronic conditions may require more treatments to see improvement. Please feel free to ask any questions about your condition. Recommendations and referrals will be made if that is the best course of action for your condition. If you are having an emergency, please dial 911 and seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Do you take insurance?
Cattail Acupuncture is not taking insurance at this time. Cash, credit cards, HSA and FSA cards are accepted. If your insurance reimburses for acupuncture, an itemized receipt can be generated for you. Please check with your insurance carrier to see what is required for coverage.