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Frequently Asked Questions |
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Does Acupuncture Hurt?
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Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and can often penetrate the skin with no pain at all. Some areas may be more sensitive and feel like a small pinch as the needle is inserted, but that lasts for less than a second. Once needles are in place, there should be no pain. |
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Is Acupuncture safe?
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Acupuncture is an extremely safe medical procedure when performed by a qualified practitioner. Needles are pre-sterilized, single-use, and disposable. Our practitioners have all been trained in clean-needle technique. |
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Is Acupuncture just the placebo effect?
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It has long been hypothesized that acupuncture works only because people expect it to work. Western lab techniques have shown that acupuncture can increase the amount of Beta-endorphins (the body natural pain-killers), Acetacholine (the body natural anti-inflammatory) and several immunity factors in the blood. Even these empiercalp results have been attributes in the past to the patient expectations, but recently these effects have been replicated in studies on rats. So while you and I may have a pre-conceived notion about what the treatment will do, it is unlikely that the rat has such expectations. |
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How many treatments will I need?
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This question is difficult to answer because everyone responds differently. Generally, the longer a problem has existed, the longer it will take to correct. The benefits generally last longer and longer with repeated treatments. Contrast this with Western medications, which often become less effective over time and require higher doses. |
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What is acupuncture treatment like?
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The first treatment is preceeded by a thorough intake evaluation. During this time, the practitioner will ask many questions and make several observations. After determining the imbalance, a practitioner will insert very thin, pre-sterilized needles into acupoints. The the patient lies comfortably in a dark room with aromatherapy and soft music. During this time, most patients experience a state of deep relaxation. Other traditional techniques may be employed; such as guasha, cupping, moxibustion, and acupressure. The whole procedure usually takes less than one hour. |
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Does insurance cover this?
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The number of insurance companies that cover acupuncture in Illinois is growing but still limited. Patients should contact their carrier to inquire. We will be happy to provide a bill for patients to submit to their carriers for reimbursement. |
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What about herbs?
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Herbology is an empirical science; studied and passed down for millennia. Herbs are the sources for many Western medications. They can be more gentle and natural, but should not be taken without proper knowledge. At Mercy Acupuncture & Massage Center, the practitioners have extensive training in herbal remeies and can customize formulas to suit individual patients' needs. |
