Frequently Asked Questions
I've been treated with acupuncture before and it didn't help me with my pain. Why should I expect different results at your clinic?
- There are many styles of acupuncture being practiced in the United States. The system practiced in this clinic is usually able to bring results within seconds.
- We specialize in the treatment pain disorders and Sports Medicine (i.e. Sports Injuries). Our staff has extensive training in this field to bring you fast relief.
- Length of training an acupuncturist has undergone. For example, in some states Chiropractors are required to take only a 200 hour training program in order to practice acupuncture and in many states very little or no training is required for Allopathic Medical Doctors (M.D.'s). These shorter programs are usually offered over a weekend and by watching video tapes. In comparison, most acupuncture schools require 2800+ hours of instruction. Granted some of these hours are in western science and medicine courses, but you get the idea. This information is not presented to belittle the value of Chiropractic and Western Allopathic medical care! They each have there place in the health care system and they can help many people. However, it is hard to believe anyone would be a good Chiropractor with only 200 hours of Chiropractic instruction. In simpliest terms, if your faucet leaks, don't call an electrician, call a plumber! Note: In Kentucky, only people who have undergone significant training may use the title "Certified Acupuncturist" with the specific initials "C.Ac." after their name.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
Not really. Although you will experience a dull sensation or tingling near the insertion points during the treatment.
Do you reuse needles?
No. To reduce the possibility of infection from acupuncture, we only use single use, sterile, disposable, stainless steel needles. Your practitioner has had training in Clean Needle Technique.
Does insurance cover acupuncture?
While many insurance policies do not cover any acupunture treatment, some do. You will need to call your insurance company to check your benefits, and in the event that acupuncture is included, you should inquire about the details, such as any requirements and limitations to coverage. Before you call, we will be happy to provide you with a thorough list of specific questions you should ask in order to receive the most accurate information.
Does worker's compensation cover acupuncture?
Yes, with a referral from a M.D. Simply ask your M.D. to provide a letter of referral or call our office and we will make arrangements.
Will you bill my insurance for me?
Yes, however,
you are responsible for payment of services in full at the time of each treatment. If your policy provides coverage, we will fill out the insurance form for you and submit it to your insurance company for any reimbursement. We needed to implement this system due to 1) Our difficulty in obtaining information from insurance companies as an out-of-network provider, and 2) Conflicting information some insurance companies were often giving to our clinic and our clients, resulting in clients ultimately learning they were fully responsible for costs after their insurance company had indicated otherwise.
What type of training is required to practice Acupuncture in Kentucky?
The practice of acupuncture is regulated by the state of Kentucky. Generally speaking, one must have meet the educational requirements (usually a Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine), pass the National Board Examinations for Acupuncture, and pass the clean needle technique exam. Other requirements are needed as well. You can visit the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure at
http://www.kbml.ky.gov to find out more information.
Do you have to believe in Acupuncture in order for it to work?
No. If this were true, veterinarians would not be using acupuncture to treat animals for a wide variety of disorders. Nor would Organic Valley Farms be giving acupuncture to their cows resulting in greater milk production without hormones!
How long does an acupuncture treatment take?
The initial treatment will take an hour and fifteen minutes. Subsequent treatments take an hour or less. Your condition determines how long the needles are retained, if at all.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends on your condition. Generally speaking, if the situation is acute you can expect to be treated 2-3 times per week for 4 weeks. If your condition is chronic, expect to be treated for longer than 4 weeks. The use of Chinese Herbs or receiving Reiki treatments may reduce the total amount of treatments needed.
Why do you sometimes look at my tongue and take my pulse?
What the tongue looks like and what the pulse feels like helps to determine the pattern of your disorder. The pulse and tongue are like maps which show what is going on inside the body. When adding up these findings along with what you tell the practitioner about your case leads them to a Chinese Medical Pattern Diagnosis. A Chinese Medical practitioner will check the tongue color, moisture content, tongue coating, shape, and for cracks. A Chinese Medical practitioner will check the pulse width, shape, regularity of beats, beats per minute, and pulse strength.