Frequently Asked Questions

How is TCM different from bio-medical medicine?   Back to top
The TCM approach to medical treatment considers the entire body before focusing on one aspect of it.  For example, the practitioner must know about the patient’s diet and sleep (among other things) before treating a headache.  By taking the whole person into account, the true problem can be addressed, not just the symptom.
Since it is rooted in the logic and philosophy of a foreign country, TCM uses terms, such as “dampness” or “heat”, to diagnose a disorder.  Although the language may be unusual, it is merely the jargon of the traditional science, comparable to bio-medical terms such as “virus” or “bacteria”.

What is acupuncture?   Back to top
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body called acupuncture points.  Acupuncture points have been used in China for thousands of years and each point has been found to have specific effects on the body.  According to traditional Chinese principles, acupuncture adjusts the flow of qi (vital energy that nourishes and animates the body) as it moves through channels along the body’s surface.  Pain and illness are results of stagnations and disturbances in this qi flow.  Acupuncture promotes the smooth, free flow of qi and simultaneously, encourages the body to resolve future disruptions on its own without requiring more treatments.  Bio-medical science cannot yet explain how acupuncture works.  Numerous studies have found that acupuncture does induce the release of endorphins, causing a pain relieving effect.

Does acupuncture hurt?   Back to top
Acupuncture is typically painless.  The needles used are no thicker than a human hair and when inserted correctly, the needles are rarely felt.  There may be a warming, tingling, or heavy sensation at the insertion site but patients often describe these feelings as pleasant.  Most people find acupuncture to be incredibly relaxing and even fall asleep during a treatment

Is acupuncture safe?   Back to top
One of the benefits of acupuncture is the virtual absence of side effects.  All needles used currently are made of stainless steel, individually packaged, and disposable.  When performed by a licensed and professional acupuncturist, acupuncture is extremely safe.

What can one expect after an acupuncture treatment?   Back to top
Patients often experience immediate total or partial relief of their symptoms after the first treatment.  This relief may last or some symptoms may return.  In a few cases, there may be no immediate relief, but noticeable relief over the next few days.  The more acupuncture treatments received, the longer the relief is sustained.  Overall, after an acupuncture treatment, one should feel better.

How many treatments are required?   Back to top
The length of a treatment plan varies depending on the nature, duration, and severity of the complaint.  Some acute conditions require only one treatment.  Chronic issues often require 5-10 treatments, while some serious health conditions necessitate many treatments over time.  To help reduce the number of treatments needed, the practitioner may suggest some dietary modifications, exercises, relaxation techniques, and/or Chinese herbal remedies in order to strengthen the effects of an acupuncture treatment.

Are Chinese herbs just like Western herbs?   Back to top
Western herbalism focuses primarily on the relief of a particular symptom or disease and herbs are often used individually.  Chinese herbs are prescribed according to the current symptom, the underlying cause (or Chinese medical diagnosis), and the patient’s constitution. Chinese herbs are prepared to match each patient’s unique situation and are always used in formulas, which contains numerous herbs to better address the entire person.  Chinese herbs are often used in combination with acupuncture as part of the TCM treatment plan.

How are Chinese herbal formulas taken?   Back to top
Chinese herbal formulas are taken in a variety of forms.  The form chosen is based on the desired strength of the formula, the duration it will be taken, the need for an individualized formula, and above all, the patient’s preference.  The benefits of each form are as follows:

1. Pills: Well suited for prolonged use and patient who do not have a palette for the taste of herbs.
2. Powders: Allows for formulas to be created to match each patient individually. More potent than pills and convenient to drink.
3. Tincture: Allows for a smaller doses in a higher concentration and convenient to take without water.
4. Teas: The traditional form of Chinese herbs.  Tends to be the most potent form of administration.

Often a patient will begin with a stronger form, such as powders or tincture, and then switch to pills once the symptoms are under control.

Can Chinese herbs be used in combination with drugs?   Back to top
Overall, Chinese herbs have a low toxicity and when prescribed correctly, they rarely have side effects.  Some herbs do interact or interfere with certain medication.  Professional Chinese herbalists are educated about herb-drug interactions and always take this into account before recommending any herbs.  It is important to inform a practitioner of all medications that may be taken simultaneously with an herbal formula.

What conditions are treated with TCM?   Back to top
TCM is a complete system of medicine capable of treating a full spectrum of complaints.  Almost any painful issue can be addressed, as well as many internal medicine conditions.  Some of the common complaints in my TCM practice are: migraines, back pain, knee pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, fibromyalgia, TMJ, tendonitis, arthritis, flu, insomnia, depression, anxiety, stress, asthma, infertility, menopausal symptoms, breech pregnancy, allergies, hypertension, chronic intestinal dysfunction, chronic illnesses (such as hepatitis and eczema), smoking cessation, and weight loss.

Will insurance pay for TCM?   Back to top
Some insurance companies will pay for acupuncture, but some will only pay if it is performed by a MD.  For complete details on what is covered by your insurance, you should check your individual policy.  Although I do not take insurance, I will provide you with receipts and insurance codes so you can get reimbursed if your policy will allow it.