Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does it hurt?

NO! Acupuncture needles are very fine, about the width of a human hair. At most you may feel a slight pinch, but then it is extremely relaxing. Very often people are so relaxed they fall asleep during treatment. I use a very gentle needle insertion technique.

2. Do you re-use the same needles?

Acupuncture needles are sterilized, pre-packaged, single-use-only needles. After your treatment, they are properly disposed of into a biohazard container.

3. How long do the treatments take?

I usually allow 1 hour for the entire session. Needles may be retained anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes, depending on your particular needs. The very first visit includes an extensive health history and evaluation, so actual treatment time may be a bit shorter.

4. How many sessions will I need?

There is no absolute number. It depends entirely upon what your health issues are, so this can be better determined after your first appointment. Treatments do have a cumulative affect, so people usually need a series of weekly treatments. In general, I suggest trying 3 treatments to give your body a chance to respond to therapy, and then we will re-evaluate at that time.

5. Is acupuncture covered by my health insurance?

At this time, insurance does not cover acupuncture therapy in this state. However, if you have an auto insurance claim, or a workers’ compensation claim it may be covered. Please check with your insurer directly. In addition, if you have a flexible benefits account through your work, you can deduct acupuncture as a medical expense.

6. Is Chinese medicine safe?

Yes, absolutely. When practiced correctly by a trained and qualified practitioner, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are both very safe. In fact, to an acupuncturist, a side–effect means that there is an imbalance that needs to be addressed. Treatment will be modified until there is healing without any side effects.

7. How can I find a qualified practitioner of Chinese medicine?

I believe a minimal standard is national board certification by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). It is important to ask about training and years in practice. Michigan has a brand new law allowing acupuncture registration. When established, registration will better inform the public of a practitioner's qualifications.

8. Where can I find more information about acupuncture or other holistic medicine?

Try this link to the PCOM Library.