The Acupuncture Advantage of Hingham


 

                                 FAQs                                 

What is acupuncture?

As life's demands increase and time for proper nourishement decreases, it becomes difficult for the body to maintain balance.  When the body is unable to do so, acupuncture provides it with the desired direction and impulse. 
It is the role of the acupuncturist to assist the body in its' self-correcting process. 

The acupuncturist helps the body return to proper balance by signaling the body to make adjustments or open any "blockages".  The acupuncturist does so by needling acupuncture points that have
proven to be practically effective for thousands of  years. 

Does acupuncture treat my condition? 

Please see our conditions treated page for a partial list of ailments and associated symptoms treated by acupuncture and Chinese medicine.  Also feel free to contact us to see if acupuncture is an effective choice for you.  

How does acupuncture work?

Modern scientific research has described various physiological shifts following acupuncture, such as beneficial changes in the bodies own natural painkillers, anti-inflammatory agents, immune system functions and hormonal activity.  Research also suggests that acupuncture causes stimulation or suppression of pain and emotion centers in the brain. 

What does acupuncture feel like?

A six year old patient best described the sensation of receiving an acupuncture needle to his friend by saying, "See, it doesn't hurt, it just pinches a little."  Other local sensations include: mild tingling, warmth and mild heaviness.

Once the needles are in place, patients describe a calmness or peacefulness as sensations of fluidity, circulation, warmth, lightness or a sensation of "melting into the treatment table".  In short, acupuncture feels very relaxing and comfortably energizing.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncturists receive extensive training in the anotomy of the human body and practive proper needling techniques to insure patient safety.  In following the guidelines of Clean Needle Technique Certiification, only pre-sterilized, disposable needles are used.  These needles are used only once and then safely disposed.

Our acupuncturists, received training in an extensive three-year Masters Degree Program at
The New England School of Acupuncture (NESA).  The NESA program includes over 1200 hours of hands-on clinical instruction, instruction in Western Sciences and biomedicine, and a full year of clinical internships.

Does acupuncture have side-effects?  

Acupuncture is virtually free of adverse effects when performed by a licensed acupuncturist.  In fact, because of acupuncture's systemic approach, healthy side effects such as improved sleep, increased vitality and stress reduction are typically enjoyed.

Can acupuncture be used as Preventative Medicine?

Yes, it can!  Through years of training in diagnostic skills, an acupuncturist may recognize imbalances before they manifest as disease.

At The Acupuncture Advantage of Hingham, our goal is to help patients raise their quality of health and vitality.  Patients learn proactive health habits and receive periodic treatments to maintain proper health.

How many treatments are needed?

Some acute conditions may experience marked improvement after only one treatment while chonic illnesses many require more.  Each patient and condition is unique, therefore, a consultation with an acupuncturist is recommended for a more accurate prognosis.   In general, however, we would expect a 10 year old child to recover quickly from a recent and minor ankle sprain while a senior with long standing severe back pain may respond more slowly.

Contributing factors include:

-The age of the patient
-The nature of the condition
-How long the condition has existed
-The severity of the condition


Is acupuncture covered by health insurance?

If your insurance company covers acupuncture treatments, we will be happy to provide you with all the neccessary documents for reimbursement. 

While some insurance plans do cover acupuncture, most do not.  It is anticipated that most  insurance companies will cover acupuncture in the coming years.  In the meantime, it is important to realize that there are many circumstances in which just a few acupuncture treatments can correct longstanding ailments. 

In these circumstances, the cost of acupuncture may actually be far less than alternatives that are largely covered by insurance companies e.g. 80% coverage.  In addition, the value of a quicker recovery may well offset the price of acupuncture treatments.  Please 
contact us 
for a free consultation to see if acupuncture can be a cost effective choice for you.

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