Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture is not a painful practice, certainly not at Elements of Acupuncture. We use the highest quality needles that will not irritate or tug at the skin and practice painless insertion with the use of guide-tubes for the quickest insertion. Instead of feeling a sharp prick, the patient will feel a thump on the guide-tube.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, acupuncture is very safe. Acupuncture needles are so thin, when removed, bleeding rarely occurs. This is because unlike an injection syringe or hypodermic needle (used to draw blood), acupuncture needles are solid, not hollow. Therefore they do not leave a puncture hole or a wound after needles are removed, leaving no risk of infection. We take safety and cleanliness very seriously at our clinic. All acupuncture needles used in our office are sterile one time use and disposed of in biohazard sharps containers, and needle insertion sites are swabbed with alcohol prior to needle insertion.
What does acupuncture feel like?
Treatments are very relaxing, within minutes after needles are inserted clients report feelings of relaxation, calm, and lightening of stress. Many clients will even fall asleep from the sensation of deep relaxation. Sensations experienced during acupuncture, known as 'qi sensation' is often described as pressure, tingling, heavyness, or movement due to adjustments of the body's circulation.
How does acupuncture work?
The body is an integrated network of channels, also known as meridians. These channels are all connected to each other as well as connected to the body’s internal organs. The channels carry and circulate energy through the body. When the body is in balance energy flows smoothly throughout the channels. When there is injury, disease, or an imbalance, the energy can become deficient or stagnated. Acupuncture needles act as energy conductors in the body, when placed along the channels they fine tune the energy of the body to regain balance and smooth the flow of energy. So in short, acupuncture balanaces the circulation of the body.
What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture works directly on the blood circulation and nervous system to enhance circulation and reduce inflammation, thus any circulatory, nerve, and inflammatory issues can be treated with acupuncture.
The most common conditions we treat at our clinic include: Pain, Allergies, Stress, Arthritis, Infertility, Menstual Irregularity, and Gastrointestinal Disorders
Can kids get acupuncture?
Children respond very well and quickly to acupuncture and Chinese herbal treatments because their energy is so vibrant. Treatments for kids are shorter and use fewer needles than those for adults. Often young children and babies can be treated with acupressure which is very enjoyable and feels like a gentle massage.
Will health insurance pay for acupuncture?
Many companies now cover acupuncture including: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, United Health Care as well as many others. Clients are encouraged to bring their health insurance card to their appointment. We will be happy to contact your insurance provider to check for acupuncture coverage. For our clients with health insurance including acupuncture coverage a co-pay is due at the time of service and we provide the convience of billing your insurance directly.
Will car insurance pay for acupuncture if I'm in an auto accident?
Yes! Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage will pay for 100% of your medical expenses including acupuncture treatments up to your coverage limit. In the State of Texas, an insurance company must offer you $2,500 in PIP coverage. This covers you, your family members, and any passengers in your vehicle, regardless of who caused the accident. This also covers you if you are a passenger in another person's vehicle during an accident.
What are Chinese herbs?
Chinese herbs are natural plant and animal products that have been used for thousands of years to aid in health and healing. Plant products are often flowers, roots, leafs, seeds, and fruit/berries. Animal products are mostly shells and insects. Chinese herbs are often used as an adjunt therapy with acupuncture or can be used on their own. It is best to take a balanced formula of herbs, rather than just single herbs. This is why clients are required to have an herbal consultation with one of our practitioners before starting an herbal regimine.
What is a tincture?
A tincture is type of medicine extracted from a plant in an alcohol solution. We use a combination of filtered water, alcohol, and glycerin to extract all the therapeutic elements of the Chinese herbs. The herbs are first ground very fine to increase their surface area for maximum absorption, soaked for 7-21 days, then the decoction is strained. The liquid from the strained decotion is the herbal tincture. Tinctures have many advantages, they are highly effective and very convenient to take, making them the most commonly prescribed herbs for adults and children.
