questions you may have...

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What is Chinese medicine?
Chinese medicine is a complete system of medicine, which includes acupuncture, herbal therapy, tui na (acupressure), and qi gong (exercise). The most well known facet is acupuncture, which is the insertion of hair-thin needles into specific acupoints on the body.

How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is based on the theories of the flow of qi (chee) through distinct channels or meridians, that cover the body. Acupuncture basically permits qi to flow to areas that are deficient, or areas that have too much excess stagnation (pain, etc). Acupuncture functions to regulate and restore the body's systems, thus treating & preventing disease by balancing disharmonies.

Does acupuncture hurt?
The needles are as fine as a strand of hair, so the insertion is hardly felt, or can sometimes feel like a little pinch. You may experience a heavy sensation around the needle insertion, or a distending, tingling, or electric feeling that may travel up or down from the needle site.

Are the needles clean?
The highest quality stainless steel disposable needles are used. The needles come in individually sterilized packets, and are discarded after a single use. No needle is ever reinserted.

How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends upon the nature, severity and duration of your condition. For acute conditions, you may only need 1-2 treatments. A series of 6-10 treatments may resolve a more chronic issue. However, if you have a condition that has been progressively worsening over the years, it may require treatments over many months. Most patients discover that they enjoy the benefits of acupuncture, even if they are healthy. Acupuncture can stimulate your immune function to keep you healthy. Some people come in for monthly or seasonal 'tune-ups,' just as you would tune-up your car to maintain great function!

What are 'herbs?'
The herbs used in Chinese medicine include roots, bark, leaves, branches, flowers, and minerals. Melanie does not use any animal products when prescribing herbs.
You may take them in the form of a tea decoction, granule powders that you mix with water, or as a pill or tablet, depending on what suits you best.

Does insurance cover acupuncture treatments?
Each insurance plan is unique, so you should call to determine if you have coverage. Melanie is an out-of-network provider for most plans, so please learn if you have a deductible, what percentage of the bill they cover, how many treatments are covered, and if there are any limitations on diagnosis codes.

Melanie will provide you with a bill so that you can get reimbursement from your insurance company.

Currently, she is a provider with PHCS and Oxford.