Frequently Asked Questions

What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a treatment method used by practitioners of Oriental Medicine. Acupuncture is the use of very fine sterile needles inserted at specific points of the body in order to rebalance the internal environment, re-establish homeostasis, and therefore treat disease. According to traditional theories acupuncture influences the vital force, or Qi, of the body. Western science has proven that acupuncture can regulate the body by many mechanisms, including stimulating the endocrine and nervous systems.

Most patients find treatments relaxing and rejuvenating. Most people associate acupuncture with pain management and it is true that acupuncture is very effective at treating all types of acute and chronic pain. That said acupuncture can be used to treat a very wide range of conditions including infertility, gynecological conditions, digestive disorders, respiratory complaints, insomnia, fatigue, and psychological issues such as anxiety and depression.

Does it hurt?
Most patients say acupuncture is a painless procedure. However it is normal and even beneficial to feel certain sensations during treatment. Common sensations include heaviness, aching, or tingling where the needles are or even in other areas of the body away from the needles. Occasionally there is a small pinch when needles are inserted but most patients find treatments very relaxing and some even fall asleep while the needles are in
What will my first visit be like?
During your first visit you will be asked many questions, some related specifically to your complaint and others seemingly unrelated. With all aspects of Oriental Medicine your entire case is taken into consideration to determine what is causing the disease. After the initial evaluation you will receive an acupuncture treatment. The first visit will take about 90 minutes and return acupuncture treatments will need about 45 to 60 minutes.

Be sure to eat within a few hours before all acupuncture visits. Avoid overeating immediately before treatment.

What should I bring to my first visit?
Please bring with you any information about your case you may have from your other doctors, including things like lab tests, blood work, reports of x-rays or MRI’s, etc. Payment is expected at the time of your visit. The three forms of payment accepted are cash, personal checks and credit cards.
How many treatments will I need?
The answer to this question will differ for each patient. Generally speaking minor or recent complaints, such as a simple muscle strain or the common cold, require only a few treatments. The longer a condition has existed and the more serious the condition, the more treatments may be necessary.
How often will I need treatment?
This will vary from person to person. In the beginning minor chronic conditions will need at least weekly treatments. For intense pain, long-standing problems, acute injury, or any more serious problems more treatments per week may be necessary. In China, acupuncture is often given daily or every other day. In the United States this schedule may not be possible due to financial and time constraints, but still 2 or 3 treatments per week may be necessary for more serious conditions. A problem that may go away with 6 treatments at twice per week might take 10 or more treatments at weekly intervals. Thus, the more frequent treatment schedule in the long run will cut down on the total number of necessary treatments, reduce the overall recovery time, and cut down on eventual cost of treatment.
Does insurance cover the cost of treatment?
Today many insurance companies cover acupuncture treatments. However, your coverage may vary depending on your specific plan and your diagnosis. Our office accepts and will file electronically with all insurance companies as an OUT OF NETWORK provider.
Remember, that insurance coverage is a contract between you and your insurance company, not with any health care provider. You are responsible for understanding your health plan benefits and for obtaining any pre-certification or referrals necessary to guarantee coverage.
Does Medicare cover acupuncture?
No, not yet.
What is your cancellation policy?
The office maintains a 24 hour cancellation policy. Missed appointments prevent other patients from being able to use that same appointment time. Patients who miss appointments or do not provide 24 hour notice of cancellation will be charged $45.00 (which is not reimbursable by their insurance provider). If there are any questions about this policy, please contact the office.
What is Oriental Medicine?
Oriental Medicine is a term that refers to a traditional system of medicine, classified by the U.S. National Institutes of Health as a complete medical system. Acupuncture is just one part of Oriental Medicine, which includes other therapies such as Chinese herbal medicine, diet and exercise therapies, cupping, moxabustion, manual therapies and more.
How do I know if a practitioner knows what they are doing?
All practitioners of Acupuncture are certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). This certification requires extensive training in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. New Jersey practitioners are also required to be licensed by the Medical Examiner’s office.
What if I have other questions?
For other questions please feel free to call the office at (201) 509-4174. Please realize that in many cases I will not be able to answer very specific questions (such as how many treatments will be necessary or where will the needles go) until I see you in person and evaluate your case. I look forward to becoming part of your health care team.