When performed by a competently trained, licensed, professional acupuncturist, Acupuncture is extremely safe and effective. Only licensed acupuncturist are allowed to practice in the United States. The medical board of the State oversees licensing. Acupuncturists carry medical malpractice insurance and are required to take continuing education courses to maintain their skills and license.

Acupuncture needles are very fine sterilized disposable needles as fine as hair. Their insertion is quick and most of ten not felt at all. Once the needle is inserted, the patient may feel a dull ache, heaviness, warmth or tingling sensation around the needle site. Most people are pleasantly surprised to find Acupuncture is extremely relaxing and they typically fall asleep during treatment.

Acupuncture needles are gently placed at specific points on the body. These may not be felt at all, or may be felt as a mild initial sensation upon entering followed by a tingling, numbness, ache or travelling warmth. Acupressure on these same points is most often used with children.

A positive response to treatments often noticed immediately. How long this response last is dependent on the severity and chronicity of the specific condition being treated. Acute conditions may need only a single treatment whereas chronic conditions may need 3-6 treatments.

On your first visit, the acupuncturist will listen carefully to you in an extensive interview which provides vital clues to your overall pattern of health or disease. The acupuncturist will feel subtle variations in the pulses of the wrist to determine a wealth of information about how your body is functioning. The condition of the tongue, smell, overall appearance of the face and skin and emotional state all are important indicators of your condition. Particular patterns are discerned to determine which specific Acupuncture points on the body to be used. Most people are surprised at the depth of relaxation, intensity of energy which occurs, and sense of well being and healing which occurs from the rebalancing of energy. Often relief is felt immediately, although relief may occur in the following days (or weeks) depending on the severity and chronicity of symptoms. You will find you will look forward to treatment for the many benefits that are received from acupuncture.

Areas on the tongue reflect specific meridians. Acupuncturists look at the color, shape, cracks, patches and coating of the tongue. The acupuncturist them uses this information to diagnose the overall state of health of the patient.

Each wrist has 6 pulse positions, total of 12, that correspond to specific meridians. Your acupuncturist will feel for pulse strength and quality. This information will help the acupuncturist understand your state of overall health.

Insurance companies are now starting to cover Acupuncture. Insurance will vary from state to state and according to the individual's policy. Contact your insurance provider and ask these questions: 1) Is Acupuncture a covered service? 2) Do I need a referral from a medical doctor? 3) Do I have a deductible? 4) Do I have a co pay? 5) How many visits per calendar year?