This listing of FAQs can expand, and in response to information that you’re looking for. So if there is something you’ve got a question about that isn’t covered, send me a note (through the CONTACT US section)
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a treatment method used by practitioners of Chinese medicine that entails the gentle insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific locations within the body, to influence the nerve and circulatory pathways that facilitate health and healing.
Are there Other Modalities of Chinese Medicine?
Yes! Acupuncture is just one of several modalities of Chinese medicine intervention that also includes: Chinese Herbal Medicine, Moxabustion, Gua Sha, Cupping, Tui Na, Facial Rejuvenation, Dietary and Lifestyle Practices.
Are Acupuncture Needles Re-Used?
No! In accordance with modern medical standards of Clean Needle Technique, needles are not re-used, and are disposed of properly within safety guidelines applied to all medical waste.
Is there anything being put into or taken from the body with the needle?
No; acupuncture needles are not like the hollow-centered hypodermic needles that we are accustomed to with injections or when fluids are withdrawn from the body. Acupuncture needles are filiform, more like a sewing needle, but very thin. They vary in gauge and length, selected according to treatment needs. The strategy is to instigate the body through application of the needles at specific points in the body.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
In general, acupuncture is not painful. Acupuncture needles are very fine, thin and flexible. Sensations of acupuncture are related to nerve and circulatory pathway stimulations as well as relaxation of muscle fibers and connective tissue. These sensations can be different for each person, and from session to session. While needle sensation in some places can be initially described as “pinch-y” - the feeling is not intended to last; it is as common for needling in other areas to elicit little to no sensation at all. Some commonly described feelings are a heaviness, tingling, or warmth. Acupuncture also stimulates the release of endorphins or "feel good hormones," making a session a relaxing experience for most. As always, communicate any concerns or discomfort that you have so that adjustments can be made to both ease and facilitate an effective treatment.
how does acupuncture work?
While the exact mechanism of action regarding acupuncture is not fully defined within the current biomedical framework, clinical evidence and research do point to the multiple ways in which acupuncture intervention positively affects the body. There is evidence that acupuncture stimulates the hypothalmus - the self-regulatory part of the brain - to support better functioning of the immune, respiratory, digestive, and endocrine systems. Within this complex, there is influence over the nervous system, through regulation of the sympathetic and parasympathetic interface, in influencing pain sensations; and all combined in the normalizing of cyclical functions such as sleep and menstruation.
Why aren’t there pictures of the practice modalities on this site?
you navigate through the site, you may notice that most of the images selected do not directly illustrate the practice modalities to which they are associated. As I looked through and obtained a variety of images of needles, cups, and other tools - I made an editorial decision to use images that reflect more (and more beautifully to me) upon the themes of what medicine offers - potential, change, revelation, wonder and resonance - versus what the tools and their application can reveal on their own. This is not meant to be cryptic or hidden, but poetic, so please send a note to ask for more information or detail, as needed.
How do I know if a Practitioner is qualified?
All practitioners of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine should be state licensed health care providers in accordance to local regulatory practice; in NYS, the licensure is “Acupuncturist.”
New York State Department of Professions: http://www.op.nysed.gov/
The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) offers four certifications: http://www.nccaom.org/
Asian Bodywork Therapy (Dipl. ABT) is given to massage therapists.
Acupuncture (Dipl. Ac.)
Chinese herbal medicine (Dipl. CH)
Oriental Medicine (Dipl. OM) - demonstrates competency in acupuncture, herbal medicine, bodywork therapy, other modalities of Oriental Medicine, as well as training in western biomedical sciences.