FAQs-Michigan TCM Wellness Center

WHAT IS TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE?

Traditional Chinese Medicine is one of the oldest continuous systems of medicine in history, with recorded instances dating back two thousand years. Chinese medicine does not focus on the symptom, but rather the individual as a whole with all parts being interconnected. Health is defined as the free unimpeded flow of vital energy or qi (pronounced chee) in the body. Qi circulates through channels in the body, which act like rivers, carrying this nourishing life energy to tissues throughout the entire body. When a river or channel gets blocked, qi can no longer flow freely, creating an imbalance in the body. This results in illness of physical body or of the mind and spirit. Acupuncture is performed by inserting fine needles at specific points on the channel, regulating the flow of qi to restore balance and promote self healing in the body.

Along with acupuncture, most Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncturists are trained in Chinese herbs, diet counseling, exercises and relaxation techniques.

The acupuncturist should be certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). This means the acupuncturist obtained a four year Master’s Degree and successfully completed competency board exams.

WHAT CONDITIONS DOES ACUPUNCTURE HELP?

Acupuncture can be used to promote general health and well-being as well as help with specific conditions:

Digestive disorders: indigestion, reflux, nausea, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhea, colitis
Ear, nose, mouth and throat disorders: toothaches, laryngitis, canker sores, ringing in the ears, sore throat, TMJ
Respiratory disorders: sinusitis, bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, skin rashes, allergies
Circulation disorders: leg swelling, cold extremities
Urinary and gynecological disorders: urinary incontinence, PMS, infertility, symptoms of menopause, irregular periods, painful periods, heavy bleeding, endometriosis, fibroids
Muscular disorders: neck pain, back pain, knee pain, sciatica, frozen shoulder, bursitis and tendonitis, arthritis, sprains, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, tennis elbow; can also aid with rehabilitation for healing fractures, joint injuries and chronic pain
Neurological disorders: headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, trigeminal neuralgia, vertigo, pain from shingles, peripheral neuropathy
Psycho-emotional disorders: stress and tension, anxiety, depression, insomnia
Relief of symptoms related to cancer treatments: including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy
Autoimmune Conditions: MS, Hashimoto’s disease, thyroid issues, celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus
Fertility Support: natural fertility care, support to IUI/IVF, chronic miscarriage, impotence, low sperm count, low motility
Substance abuse and addictions: smoking cessation, alcohol & drug addiction
And many more conditions…

Acupuncture can also be used with regular medical treatments to alleviate symptoms of many other conditions.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

The number of treatments varies with each person. Depending on your condition, it could be as few as one treatment a week for 4-6 visits, or could be a weekly or monthly treatment for 10 to 12 treatments. Acute conditions respond quickly to treatment, whereas chronic conditions may require a longer period of time to treat.

DOES IT HURT?

Some people experience minor discomfort and others don't feel any pain at all. Acupuncture needles are very thin and made of stainless steel. Once the needles are retained you may feel a dull ache, heaviness or itching at the site known as "de qi". These are normal sensations that indicate positive therapeutic treatment effects. Many people report feeling very relaxed during the treatment.

DO YOU REUSE THE NEEDLES?

No. The needles are for one time use only. Acupuncture needles are sterile and disposable, reducing the risk of any of any infection.

Michigan TCM Wellness Center - Acupuncture in Michigan

HOW LONG DO THE NEEDLES STAY IN?

Needles are typically retained for 15 to 40 minutes depending on the condition.

DOES INSURANCE COVER IT?

Most health insurances in Michigan do not cover acupuncture. Currently, all services are self pay prior to treatment. Please contact your health insurance carrier directly to see if you have reimbursement coverage. Many flexible spending accounts have acupuncture reimbursement coverage.