FAQ

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of treatments from Traditional Chinese Medicine. It’s an effective form of medical treatment that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive treatment method to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy.

Acupuncture promotes natural healing. It can enhance recuperative power and immunity, support physical and emotional health, and improve overall function and well-being. It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.

MTUS (Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule) Guidelines - Acupuncture

(1) “Acupuncture” is used as an option when pain medication is reduced or not tolerated, it may be used as an adjunct to physical rehabilitation and/or surgical intervention to hasten functional recovery. It is the insertion and removal of filiform needles to stimulate acupoints (acupuncture points). Needles may be inserted, manipulated, and retained for a period of time. Acupuncture can be used to reduce pain, reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, increase range of motion, decrease the side effect of medication-induced nausea, promote relaxation in an anxious patient, and reduce muscle spasm.

(2) “Acupuncture with electrical stimulation” is the use of electrical current (micro-amperage or milli-amperage) on the needles at the acupuncture site. It is used to increase effectiveness of the needles by continuous stimulation of the acupoint. Physiological effects (depending on location and settings) can include endorphin release for pain relief, reduction of inflammation, increased blood circulation, analgesia through interruption of pain stimulus, and muscle relaxation. It is indicated to treat chronic pain conditions, radiating pain along a nerve pathway, muscle spasm, inflammation, scar tissue pain, and pain located in multiple sites.

(3) “Chronic pain for purposes of acupuncture” means chronic pain as defined in section 9792.20(c).

Are acupuncturists required to use disposable needles?

Yes. It is unprofessional conduct for an acupuncturist to use a needle more than once. California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Section 1399.454. In A Choice Health Center, every needle we use is brand new.

Do you take insurance? Will my insurance cover acupuncture treatment?

We accept Workers’ Compensation, Auto Insurance and most health care insurances which have Acupuncture coverage.

Do I need a referral from my regular doctor to see an acupuncturist?

An acupuncturist is considered a primary care provider and a referral may or may not be required for insurance purposes. You can contact your insurance company to verify it, or you can provide us the necessary information and we’ll verify it for you.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is considered a natural, holistic medical system. TCM considers that most human disease and disorders result from conflict or fighting between disease causing factors (pathogens, chemicals, stress) and the ability of the human body (immunity, actively functioning internal organs) to fight off these pathogenic factors. The human body’s ability to fight disease, comes from maintaining internal Yin-Yang balance (homeostasis), good energy flow (Qi) and optimal blood circulation. If the balance of the body is impaired, the internal organs will be weakened and their functions impaired. If the energy flow and blood circulation are obstructed, internal waste and toxins can accumulate in the body that promote disease and dysfunction.

Traditional Chinese medicine is a broad range of medicine practices sharing common concepts which have been developed in China and are based on a tradition of more than 5,000 years, including various forms of herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage (Tui na), exercise (qigong), and dietary therapy.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is especially effective for chronic and functional diseases. In particular, it is highly effective for the treatment and management of chronic muscular-skeletal pain. Chinese medicine is often used in combination with conventional medical drugs for the management of chronic pain. Functional diseases that are often successfully managed by Chinese medicine include diabetes, organ failure, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, cancer, and asthma.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture is in concern the need to eliminate the fundamental causes of illness, not simply to remove symptoms. More and more American people get in treatments from practitioners of TCM Acupuncturist.

What will you do?

A Choice Health Center is a clinic of Acupuncture and Herbs: we provide the clinic services as follows: Evaluation and Diagnoses in TCM Principle; Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbs which is specially made per every patient’s condition; Acupuncture; Electro acupuncture; Cupping; Moxibustion; Acupressure; Dietary Therapy; Exercises – Tai Ji, Qi Gong.

Why does my acupuncturist want to feel my pulse?

There are twelve pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for twenty-seven individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.

Why does my acupuncturist want to look at my tongue?

The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.

Why does my acupuncturist recommend herbs?

Herbs can be a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They are used to strengthen, build and support the body or to clear it of excess problems like a cold, fever or acute pain. Your practitioner may suggest starting with herbs and then adding acupuncture to your treatment in the future. This is suggested to build up your internal strength so you can receive the full benefits acupuncture has to offer.

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