FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Treatments include acupuncture, Chinese herbs, Tuina and moxibustion (heat therapy). Treatment with acupuncture needles is the most commonly used technique.

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used system of healing in the world. Originating in China some 3,500 years ago, it is only in the last three decades that it has become popular in the United States.

Traditional Chinese medicine holds that:

1. There are 20 pathways (12 main, 8 secondary) called meridians. These meridians course the entire body including the internal organs.
2. Energy or Qi (pronounced chi) circulates throughout the entire body via the meridians. The balance of Qi is vital for good health.
3. Any stagnation. blockage, imbalance or misdirection of Qi may result in pain, dysfunction, and ill health.
4. Acupuncturists use needles to stimulate certain points (acupoints) that run along the meridians. This stimulation helps balance the flow of Qi so internal organs and bodily systems return back to normal. This allows the body to maintain its own health through self healing.

Acupuncture needles are very fine, about the size of a thick hair. They are solid, and nothing is injected through them. Over the centuries, refined needle insertion techniques have been developed which enable the skilled acupuncture practitioner to place a needle with little or no sensation.

Prior to their first treatment, many people do not believe that acupuncture can be painless. Sometimes the initial sensation is that of a mosquito bite. Commonly, sensations of warmth or pressure may be felt. This energetic sensation differs from pain. Patients often comment that the feeling is unfamiliar but pleasant and relaxing.

In some cases it is not necessary to use needles at all. For example, when treating young children, infants or sensitive adults, there are other techniques which are equally as effective. If you have a fear of needles, please discuss it with us. An appropriate treatment strategy can always be agreed upon.

Treatments normally last an hour. After the needles are inserted, patients typically rest for 20 – 30 minutes, allowing the body’s Qi to balance.

State and federal agencies have established strict procedures for needle sterilization. Knowledge and proper use of these procedures are part of licensing, registration and certification requirements. In order to assure your complete confidence, we use pre-sterilized, disposable needles.

In the United States, the regulation of health care practice differs from state to state. Standards to practice acupuncture safely and effectively have been established by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). Many states, including Iowa, use the NCCAOM examination and certification for meeting their licensing or registration requirements. The practice of acupuncture is regulated by the Iowa Board of Medical Examiners and all practitioners are in full compliance with all regulations and rules promulgated by the Iowa Department of Public Health.