FAQ


What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the insertion hair fine needles into specific acupoints along energetic channels of the body.

Learn More »

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we do accept insurance. Not all insurances provide for acupuncture, but many do. We are on numerous insurance panels and have a very knowledgeable front office staff which will verify your benefits and bill insurances directly:

  • Motor Vehicle Accidents – all car insurance companies
  • Blue Cross/Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross/Blue Shield Federal
  • ASHN
  • Providence
  • ODS
  • Lifewise
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • United Healthcare
  • Health Net

What criteria should I use when choosing an acupuncturist?

An acupuncturist in Oregon is required to have a license to practice medicine from the Board of Medical Examiners, and should hold a diplomat from the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.  Patients should ask about where the practitioner trained, how long the training was, how long they have been in practice, and what experience the practitioner has with the patient’s specific ailment.

What is Oriental Medicine?

Oriental medicine is a unique medical system with its own medical theory, diagnosis system, and treatment techniques. It has a written history which goes back more than 2,000 years in China and has been practiced even longer. Oriental medicine is based on the idea that qi (energy) and blood flow through the channels and collaterals of a healthy human being. Disease occurs when the qi and blood have either become stagnant and do not flow well or they have become deficient and weak, or both. Oriental medical therapies seek to harmonize the flow of the qi and the blood, as well as strengthen and tonify the qi and blood when necessary. In other words, Oriental medicine seeks to aid the body in healing itself.

What are acupuncture points?

Acupuncture points are specific locations on the body that relate to organs and diseases.  Recently, electromagnetic research has confirmed their locations.

How are conditions diagnosed?

Diagnosis of diseases are based on the signs and symptoms presented by the patient, on palpation of the anatomical meridians and acupoints, and on observation of the patient’s tongue and pulses.

Do you treat pain?

Treatments for acute syndromes and pain get dramatically effective results, and are our specialty.  Treatments for chronic conditions yield good results as well but may require ongoing treatment.

Does acupuncture hurt?

For most people acupuncture is a painless process. There may be a small pinch when the needle passes through the skin. The sensation after that is dull and more a like pressure. Most people find the experience relaxing.

How big are acupuncture needles?

Acupuncture needles are the size of hairs. They are not hollow like standard needles. They don’t rip skin like standard needles. They slide smoothly and don’t draw blood.

Is acupuncture safe?

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the use of acupuncture needles by licensed acupuncturists only and requires that they be manufactured and labeled according to strict standards for safety. The FDA also requires that needles be sterilized, non-toxic and labeled for single use by qualified practitioners only. All needles are placed into a sharps container after being used in a treatment, and are disposed of properly and safely.