New Patient Center
New Patient Center for Acupuncture and Natural Medicine - Serving Northwest Indiana
Your First Office Visit
The Acupuncturist's goal is to understand the patterns of disease of the individual at the time of examination. Just like a Medical Doctor, an Acupuncturist will assess your physical condition, by identifying symptoms, uncovering your medical history and any external factors that may impact your health and well-being, through an extended interview. Acupuncturists inspect your expressions, facial color, and body build. They observe the body, coating, moisture and mobility of the tongue. Practitioners will listen to respiration, speech characteristics, cough and even consider your bodily odors. They examine your pulses by feeling three different regions in each of your wrists. Each of the regions reflects the conditions of the heart, liver, the right and left kidney, lung and spleen. Additionally they will perform palpation techniques of various acupuncture channels and points, with the aim of discovering abnormal reactions that occur when disease appears in the body. Based upon all of the collected information, the Acupuncturist will determine the stage to which the disease has developed, location of the disease and the amount of the body's strength and resistance to fight the disease. The Acupuncturist will then choose the acupuncture points, the techniques and methods, such as cupping and moxibustion, to be used in order to regulate and bring the body into balance.
Once the diagnosis is made, you lie down on a padded bed while hair-thin needles are inserted into the acupuncture points. Needles come in different lengths and widths, according to the depth of the insertion. Depending upon the placement of the needles, you may lie face down or face up or on your side. The procedure is not generally painful. Most people feel very peaceful and may even fall asleep. The needles are usually in place for 30-45 minutes. Each condition requires a different number of needles at various acupuncture points. A typical treatment usually requires between 10 and 30 needles. The number of treatments you will need vary depending on the patients’ condition and needs, for example chronic pain conditions may need more treatments than acute conditions. Some chronic diseases, such as diabetes, asthma, cardiac disorders, or paralysis, require extended treatment plans. Your Acupuncturist will be able to assess the approximate amount of treatments needed after your first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Acupuncture Help My Condition?
There are literally hundreds of conditions, disorders and diseases that acupuncture can effectively treat. Treatments are tailored for individual case circumstances, which enhances the efficacy of the treatment. An experienced practitioner will determine if acupuncture treatment is right for you, based upon your symptoms and unique medical history.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
When a needle is inserted, a slight pinching will be felt. However once the session is underway, many patients feel very relaxed and even fall asleep.
Are There Other Forms Of Treatment Besides Needle Insertion?
Yes. Your practitioner may use their hands to put pressure on particular acupuncture points. They may also use a variety of mechanical devices to stimulate affected areas, as well as, warming the desired area by burning herbs.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. A licensed Acupuncturist uses sterilized needles which are properly disposed, in accordance with health regulations.
How Many Sessions Do I Need?
Most disorders require between 3 and 20 sessions in order to effectively correct or alleviate a problem. At the time of the initial examination, your Acupuncturist will evaluate your condition and will assess the approximate number of treatments needed.
How Should I Prepare For My Session?
Wear loose clothing to allow access to acupuncture points. Have a light meal or snack shortly before your treatment.
What Training Is Required to Practice Acupuncture?
A licensed Acupuncturist must complete rigorous education requirements, which differ from state to state. However it generally takes 3-4 years of extensive study, as well as, a 1 year internship. Most states also require certification with the NAACOM.
How Much Does Acupuncture Cost?
Generally, an acupuncture session can vary in cost, depending upon your condition. Many insurance companies cover much of the cost of acupuncture treatments. Contact your health insurance company for more information. Ask your Acupuncturist about the cost of the particular treatment prescribed.
Payment Options
Alternative Healing Works believes in the value of acupuncture for you and your family and have maintained a pricing structure that allows care for all budgets.
