Acupuncture NYC
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is an ancient medical system originating more than 3000 years ago. This treatment consists of the process of inserting ultra-thin needles, comparable in size to two strands of human hair, into the skin. Generally, the insertion is painless. Once the needles are placed, the body undergoes its own healing processes. The ancient Chinese discovered meridians that circulate Qi (oxygen) and blood in our body. Along these longitudinal lines or meridians are stations of reactive and sensitive sites known as acupuncture points. Each acupuncture point is situated near or on highly reactive nerve bundles. After the needles are inserted into the acupuncture points, a cascade of mechanisms in the body begin by signaling the central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord) to release anti-inflammatory agents, hormones, endorphins (the body's natural pain killers,) boosting immunity and increasing blood circulation. Essentially, acupuncture and Chinese medicine is a holistic approach to the treatment of a wide variety of illnesses, from pain to internal disorders.
Often pain relief is experienced within the first treatment (click here for a list of Pain conditions,) while chronic, long standing internal conditions may take five or more treatments to see optimal results. There are no drugs in the acupuncture needles when providing pain relief. The relief you feel is the body's natural healing response due to stimulation of the acupuncture points in the nervous system regulating pain and recovery.
How often should I come back?
Every individual's treatment is different, depending on their condition.
For acute and excruciating pain we recommend 3-7 sessions until pain is resolved.
For long standing chronic pain we recommend at least 2-3 sessions per week for three weeks. Once improvements are noticed and pain has decreased to a low intensity, you may reduce to 1-2 sessions per week as recommended, until symptoms do not reappear or have improved to their maximum recovery potential.
For internal conditions we recommend at least 2 sessions per week until symptoms are manageable or do not reappear.
Dosage is the key to obtaining consistent results. Much like taking an Advil or other painkillers, the effects of medication will eventually taper off and another dose will be required for additional relief. Consistent acupuncture treatments will reestablish homeostasis or balance in the body and promote self healing without the side effects of drugs.
What Does Acupuncture Treat?
Since the 1970's acupuncture has grown and continues to grow in popularity in the West, particularly for its effectiveness, and has even begun to be introduced in many hospitals. To date, acupuncture is incorporated in most hospitals of China.
Click here to view a list of conditions treatable with acupuncture according to the NIH (National Institute of Health.)
Is Acupuncture covered under insurance?
Medicaid and Medicare do not cover acupuncture. Other certain providers may have benefits for acupuncture. Click here for a list of insurance coverage, or contact us and we will verify your insurance.