Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are thin stainless steel filaments approximately the width of several hairs. The sensations patients experience during treatment range from nothing at all, to a fleeting ache or pinch in the area being needled. In our experience, even self-described "needle phobic" patients are pleasantly surprised to find that the sensations are minimal and treatment itself is relaxing and enjoyable.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
A growing number of insurance companies cover acupuncture. However, coverage varies widely. Some companies put a cap on the number of treatments per year; others put a cap on the total cost per year. In some cases, insurers will specify what types of acupuncture procedures they will cover. Flex spending accounts and cafeteria plans often include benefits for acupuncture. It is always best to call your insurer to learn the extent of your benefits.

Research shows that complimentary health care providers save employers money by teaching their employees preventative approaches to living healthy, vital and productive lives. This results in fewer sick days and major cost savings as employees avoid increasingly expensive radical medical intervention and diagnostics.

What are the Benefits of Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is effective with a wide range of conditions including: chronic pain of any type, back pain, joint pain, infertility, menopausal complications, asthma, allergies, depression, chronic fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, addiction and stress. It is also helpful for chronic illnesses and health concerns that have no clear origin or cause. Patients who receive ongoing acupuncture treatment and are committed to developing a healthy lifestyle often experience:

*Being sick less often and recovering more
  quickly

*Improvement of vitality and stamina

*Being able to take care of your own health

*Relationships with others becoming more
  harmonious

*Reductions in long term health care costs

A recent survey of people who receive acupuncture, conducted by Claire Cassidy, Ph.D., indicates that they see their physicians less frequently and use fewer medications. In addition, over two thirds of those surveyed reported having avoided recommended surgery.

Are the needles safe?
Yes. Sterile disposable needles are used once and then disposed of immediately.

Are there different styles of acupuncture?
There are many styles of acupuncture. The primary distinction exists within the diagnostic process and the corresponding treatment plan. We use a variety of techniques depending on your treatment needs.

Do I have to be ill to benefit from acupuncture?
Absolutely not. Many patients come for regular treatments as part of their preventative health maintenance to maintain a vital state of health. Professional athletes use acupuncture to maximize performance and replenish their reserves after major events. People from all walks of life come in for regular treatment to manage stress and increase focus and creativity.

Can acupuncture help me quit smoking or lose weight?
Yes, and in both cases, patients will have to commit to making life-style changes to realize the full benefits of treatment. We have a complete program for Smoking Cessation and one for Weight Loss.

How frequently do I need to come to benefit from treatment?
Individual needs vary widely and are dependent upon the patient's state of health upon entering treatment. We develop a treatment plan based on your individual needs following your initial consultation, oriental medical evaluation, and first session. Broadly speaking, patients are often seen in weekly for 6-8 visits. As patients experience stable improvement in their condition, treatments may be extended to every other week, every three weeks, monthly and eventually seasonally.

How do I get the most out of each treatment?
Be sure to eat well before coming to treatment. Avoid caffeine and alcohol in all forms during the day of treatment. Avoid intense physical activity before or after your scheduled treatment.

FACIAL REJUVENATION

How many sessions do I need? When will I notice results? How long do the results last?
Results are often noticed after the first treatment.  Dramatic transformation takes time. Skin damaged by lifestyle, gravity, and the sun requires more treatment than healthier skin. What happens to and inside the body shows up on the skin and on the face.

Sessions are usually most effective delivered in a series of 10 to 30 depending on the condition of your skin and your individual needs. The most dramatic results can last anywhere from 18 months to two years or longer when you come in for follow-ups every 4 to 6 weeks. Otherwise, you simply repeat the full course of treatment sessions when you feel that you need them again.

Does it hurt?

Microcurrent and Therapeutic Light and Color acupuncture facial revitalization uses the electrical currents at the same level as electrical current produced by your own body. Most people feel nothing at all. Occasionally, some people do feel a slight tingle.

Constitutional Facial Acupuncture Renewal uses conventional acupuncture techniques to achieve fantastic results. All the side effects associated with acupuncture are possible with this technique.

For appointments and additional information:

Connie Kauffman, Licensed Acupuncturist
443-417-5855
connie@acupuncturebelair.com