Acupuncture | Baltimore | Acupuncture & Wellness Center
Restore Balance To Your Life & Body
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture bears no resemblance to the feeling of receiving an injection, since the main source of pain from injections is the larger diameter, hollow needle and the medication being forced into the tissue by pressure. Acupuncture needles are very fine and flexible, about the diameter of a human hair. In most cases, insertion by a skilled practitioner is performed without discomfort. You may experience a sense of heaviness or electricity in the area of insertion. Most patients find the treatments very relaxing and many fall asleep during treatment. In some cases, your practitioner may also recommend herbs or dietary, exercise or lifestyle changes.
Does My Insurance Company Cover Acupuncture?
- For any treatment, please try to come earlier than your set appointment time to complete any paperwork, ask any questions you may have and to settle any accounts. This way you will have the full appointment time for your treatment.
- If you are going to be late for any reason, please call and let us know, so that we can adjust the schedule and make sure you will have enough time for a proper treatment. Whenever we can, we will accommodate any changes in your schedule as best as possible. If we cannot, we will be happy to reschedule your appointment.
- We have plenty of gowns and sheets for proper coverage during treatment. If you prefer, wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Men can bring shorts or sweat pants for their treatment.
- During treatment we will review your patient paperwork and follow up with additional questions. Even though the questions may not seem relevant to you specific condition, it is necessary to ask many questions to assess the health and function of the organ systems and channels. We may also ask to see your tongue, check your pulse and gently palpate different areas of your body.
- During treatment we may use moxibustion (burning of a type of herb), electrical stimulation, cupping, and a type of massage called Tui Na. We will also discuss nutrition, lifestyle and stress levels and how they affect overall health and well-being
- After treatment, drink plenty of water, and try to relax. Make note of any changes you feel since that will help dictate the next treatment.
In the hands of a comprehensively trained acupuncturist, your safety is assured. Acupuncture needles are sterile and are either disposable or autoclaved between treatments. If you have a preference, you should discuss the type of needles to be used with your practitioner.
Many conditions may be alleviated very rapidly by acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. However, some conditions that have arisen over a course of years will be relieved only with slow, steady progress. As in any form of healing, the patient's attitude, diet, determination and lifestyle will affect the outcome of a course of treatment. Patients are encouraged to actively participate in their healing process. Although Traditional Chinese Medicine can treat most conditions, there are circumstances that can be dealt with more effectively by Western medicine. In such cases, your acupuncturist will recommend you contact a Western medical doctor. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine should be seen as complementary to Western medicine.
Acupuncture FAQs
What Should I Expect From My First Appointment?
Is Acupuncture Painful?
Many insurance companies are beginning to cover acupuncture especially for pain conditions. Please contact your insurance company to ascertain if you have coverage. Our billers at Acupuncture and Wellness Center will also call your insurance company to verify coverage prior to treatment. Typically we will be able to get a reply from your insurance company within 1-2 business days. Please call our office if you have any questions and we will be happy to answer your questions.