FAQ
Acupuncture:
- Does it hurt?
- Do you use sterilized needles?
- What should I expect during a session?
- What do I wear for my first visit?
- How many sessions do I need?
- Does insurance pay for my treatments?
Chinese Herbal Medicine:
Conditions Treated:
Does it hurt?
Many patients report that they do not feel the needle insertion or some may feel a sensation similar to a mosquito bite. Occasionally, you may experience a dull sensation at or around the needle while the needle is retained. This is your qi or vital energy and is an indication of enhanced energy flow.
Most people find acupuncture very relaxing. In fact, you may even fall asleep during your treatment. Treatments typically last one hour. After the needles are inserted you may rest for up to 45 minutes depending on the style of treatment offered.
Do you use sterilized needles?
Yes, our needles are sterile needles used only once.
Acupuncture needles are solid, hair-thin and do not have the characteristic bevel that can cause pain when having your blood drawn in a doctor's office. Depending on the practitioner's preference, either a non-insertive needle technique or extremely superficial needle insertions can be used during a treatment. The needles used are ultra-thin and made of either silver or stainless steel.
What should I expect during a session?
The first visit is typically an hour and one half long, follow-up visits are approximately one hour. During the initial visit you will discuss with your acupuncturist your medical history and the main reason for coming. The treatment based on your specific constitution is called a root treatment. The treatment, which addresses your main concerns, is called a local treatment. Both root treatment and a local treatment are done on each visit following the initial consultation.
To begin a treatment, your practitioner will decide where to place the needles. This decision will be based on your constitution and your main complaint. Each treatment is highly customized for your constitution and specific health concern. Most often the needles are placed between the elbows, wrist and knee and ankle, although the back and abdomen can also be use.
What do I wear for my first visit?
You should wear something comfortable (i.e. sweatpants, a comfortable T-shirt, etc.) for your acupuncture appointment. Please refrain from wearing make-up, perfumes/colognes, and do not eat or drink anything that stains the tongue before your visit.
How many sessions do I need?
How soon your condition will improve depends on a number of factors including how long you've had your condition, life style, medical history, and age. The frequency of the treatments can also affect your outcome. Based on these factors, your acupuncturist will decide how many treatments are necessary in your case. Some people notice a difference immediately, others will notice changes within 4 - 6 treatments.
Once an individual is symptom-free, the goal of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is to establish a maintenance schedule. An example of a preventive maintenance schedule is an office visit bimonthly, monthly or seasonally depending upon your particular condition.
Does insurance pay for my treatments?
Some insurance are now covering acupuncture sessions. It is important to check with your policy on your specific coverage. Once you find out if your insurance covers acupuncture we will help you with the billing process.
Do you use Chinese Herbs?
Yes, we do use Chinese herbs at the Natural Wellness Clinic. Both Beverly Tarbell and Robert Yauckoes are certified by the NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental and the licensed by the Acupuncture Committee of the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine.
Are there side effects?
Side effects for Chinese Herbal Medicine are minimal for various reasons:
- Formulas are classically derived, proven and tested over thousands of years
- The whole part of a plant is used not just an extract of the active ingredient
- Many herbs are used together in a formula to enhance or deter characteristics of herbs
- Small dosages of individual herbs are used not large dosages of individual herbs
In the case that an individual is using medication prescribed by physician or bought over-the-counter, it is essential to inform your practitioner. Although side effects from drug / herb interaction are minimal, it is essential that the patient state all medication, herbal supplements and vitamins taken on a daily basis.
Are the herbs good quality?
The herbal products sold at our clinic are of superior quality. We have carefully selected herbs that conform to our stringent standards and the standards of the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) for safety. Formulas are written for your specific conditon(s) and are carefully balanced so you will not experience any side effects. In fact, side effects are unusual. However, as with any medication, any unusual symptoms should be reported immediately to your herbalist.
What conditions can be treated by Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine?
The below list is a few of the conditions treated by Traditional Chinese Medicine, if your condition is not listed, please ask your practitioner.
| Cardiac | Digestive | Emotional | General Medical |
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| Musculo-Skeletal | Neurological | Obstetrics/Gynecology | Pediatrics |
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| Respiratory | Miscellaneous | ||
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