Q: What does Taditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treat?
 A: Traditional Chinese Medicine treats a wide variety of symptoms and illnesses, including: pain, injuries, headaches and migraines, stress, addictions, digestive problems, menstrual disorders, menopausal symptoms, fatigue, immune system disorders, insomnia, depression, anxiety, and allergies. This is not an inclusive list by any means, but it does offer some indications.  TCM can also be used to maintain optimal health in the absence of illness.

 The World Health Organization (WHO) lists nearly 50 different illnesses that can be treated effectively by acupuncture. Some of these diseases are:
Neurological and Musculo-Skeletal Disorders
Headache/migraine
Back pain
Frozen shoulder
Tennis elbow
Knee pain
Sciatica
Arthritis
Trigeminal or intercostal neuralgia
Meniere's Disease
Facial paralysis (Bell's Palsy)
Paralysis following stroke
Neurogenic bladder dysfunction
Peripheral neuropathies
Gastrointestinal Disorders
 Diarrhea, acute bacillary dysentery
Constipation
Acute and chronic gastritis
Colitis
Gastric hyperacidity
Chronic duodenal ulcer (pain relief)
Respiratory System 
Acute sinusitis, acute rhinitis
Common cold
Acute bronchitis, acute tonsillitis, acute and chronic pharyngitis
Bronchial asthma (esp. children and in those without complications)
Disorders of the Mouth 
Toothache
Gingivitis
Post-extraction pain
Disorders of the Eye 
Acute conjunctivitis, central retinitis
Myopia (in children)
Cataracts  (without complications)
This is not a list of limitations for acupuncture, as acupuncture can treat many other diseases, but it is an indication of some of  the disorders that the WHO has deemed effective based on clinical experience.

 Q: Does acupuncture hurt?
 A: The needles are so thin that ten to fifteen acupuncture needles can be placed in one hypodermic (injection) needle. The sensation that is expected from acupuncture is not painful, i.e. not what you would expect from a needle. The  sensation is called "de qi" and it can include numbness, aching, tingling, warmth, distension, heaviness, or lightness. The sensation can be local or it may radiate. Many people find acupuncture is actually very relaxing and often fall asleep.

 Q: How safe is acupuncture?
 A: Acupuncture is very safe. In Delaware, acupuncturists must be licensed (see question below regarding designations) and all acupuncturists are required to take a two-day acupuncture safety course which includes clean needle technique (including disposable sterile needles) and acupoint safety. As with any medical treatment, there may be risks involved for the individual and it is important to discuss these with your practitioner. 

Q: Is acupuncture covered by medical insurance?
 A: Many extended health insurance plans do cover up to $500 of acupuncture each year. Check with your health insurance provider for details.

 Q: What other options for treatment do I have if I do not want needles?
 A: Traditional Chinese Medicine offers more treatment options than just acupuncture. Acupressure, cupping, moxibustion, and tui na massage are alternative options. Chinese herbs can also be combined specifically to suit your needs and your body's constitution. Food suggestions can also be made.

 Q: How do I take the Chinese herbs?
 A: There are many options now available. Traditionally, most Chinese herbs are given uncooked to the patient who boils them and drinks the resulting broth. As many people may find this to be time-consuming, there are easy alternatives. We use concentrated herbal powders that can be combined specifically to suit each patient's needs. The powders are simply mixed in warm or hot water and consumed two to three times daily. The powders can also be put into capsules. Pre-made Chinese herbal formulas are also available in capsule, tablet, tea, and tincture forms.

Q: How do I know about the quality and safety of the Chinese herbs?
 A: Because the properties of each herb are inherent on the soil in which they are grown, it is important that they are grown in the right region to optimize their medicinal benefits. Thus, most of the herbs are grown in various areas of  China. To ensure their quality and safety, the herbs are tested, processed, and packaged in plants that comply with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) requirements. Most of the herbal companies that we use are located in the United States and have their own regulations through the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). When the herbs are imported into Canada, they must again pass rigorous Canadian standards and testing.

  Q: Can I combine TCM treatment with conventional medicine?
 A: Acupuncture is easily combined with conventional medicine, including prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. If, however, you are taking blood thinners or immuno-suppressive medications, it is suggested to inform your acupuncturist. Chinese herbals can also safely be combined with pharmaceutical medication, western herbs, homeopathic medicines, or vitamins and minerals. An initial consultation will allow the TCM practitioner to assess your constitution and prepare an herbal formulation specifically for you. It is also advisable to take your Chinese herbs at a time apart from when you take your pharmaceutical medications to minimize any potential interactions.

 Q: How many treatments will I need?
 A: The number of treatments will vary from person to person, depending on the duration and severity of the illness, injury, or symptoms. As a general rule, the longer the duration of the problem and the more severe the symptoms, the  more treatments will be required. For example, a recent sprain may require only 1-3 treatments, more closely timed; while degenerative disk disease will need at least a few months of treatments, but the treatments will be spaced farther
apart. The number of acupuncture treatments required may be lessened if Chinese herbals and dietary changes are also incorporated. Combining herbs and acupuncture is an efficient and effective to speed the healing time and reduce costs.


Q: How to prepare for Acupuncture Treatment?
 A: 1. Please wear loose comfortable clothes that allow easy access to your skin. Acupuncture needles may remain inserted in your body for 30 minutes or more, so it's important that you wear an outfit you're able to relax in. Jeans, tight clothing like yoga clothing, and dresses are too restrictive. Loose shorts/boxers, wide-legged pants or capris, and a tank top or bra work well. If we needs to“needle” an area that is not reachable because of clothing restraints (examples are thighs, chest, abdomen, upper arms) then you have the option of putting on a gown or wearing undergarments. You will be covered up and kept warm.
 
    2. Please  eat at least a snack before your appointment, and avoid caffeine. It’s important to not let your blood sugar drop during acupuncture or you may feel faint. Don’t drink so much water that you cannot rest comfortably for 15-30 minutes; however be aware that acupuncture works better if you are not dehydrated.

    3. Please inform us if you are under the influence of any recreational drugs, alcohol, or prescription pain medicine.

    4. Please thoroughly complete your new patient forms before or at your appointment. Fill out and sign all downloadable forms before your appointment. An original Arbitration Form and Informed Consent form will be given to you to sign at the time of your appointment. These forms also include important information about our fees.  
   
    5. Please allow approximately an hour and a half for your first visit and one hour for subsequent visits.
 
    6. We require 24 hours to cancel an appointment. The fee for missed appointments or late cancellations will be  charged.

    7. Allow time after your appointment to have a snack, water, and to move slowly to your next activity. Many people feel deeply relaxed after acupuncture and want to go home and rest. Some people feel light headed and need to sit for a while before driving. Other people feel very energized after acupuncture and want to be active. All these responses are fine. If possible, listen to what your body tells you to do after the session.
 
    8. We will discuss your treatment plan at your visit. Visits will include advice about diet, lifestyle, herbs and supplements, if applicable.