FAQ
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a 3000-year-old medical modality characterized today as part of the integrative intervention system under regulation of the Acupuncture examining board, which falls under the supervision of the State Board of Medical Examiners. In 1996, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated acupuncture needles as medical devices for use by licensed practitioners which, when used properly, have the potential to create mechanical, thermal, electrical, and chemical changes in the body. The aim of acupuncture is at the core of all medicine: balancing the symbiotic relationships, which exist in the body and aids in self-healing.
What is Qi?
It is believed the channels or meridians naturally exist in all of us and flowing within them is a life force energy, which courses between the spaces of fascia to help regulate (essentially to communicate) with all systems of our body. Woven in and around these channels are acupuncture points. Modified to currently 361 defined points in the body by the World Health Organization (WHO), in actuality there are thousands of points that can be needled to harmonize the life force in our body for optimal health.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very thin. Patients have reported a slight pinch while others reported no discomfort at all.
How long does each session take?
Your first session will be a little longer than your follow ups. Your initial session will be anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Your follow-up sessions will be between 30 to 45 minutes for Traditional Chinese acupuncture or one hour and 15 minutes for a Kiiko session.
How many sessions do I need?
It varies based on the person or how long you’ve had the issue for. Most patients feel a relief or change immediately. All sessions at Alterra Wellness are personalized.
What should I expect during a session?
During your initial consultation and exam, a full health history will be taken where you will discuss your concerns and issues with the practitioner and together you will come up with short-term and long-term goals for your wellness. Your practitioner will create a treatment plan whereby you and the practitioner decide what will be needed to bring you back to optimal function. Needles may be inserted on the front or back of your body and you will be instructed to rest for 20-minutes. Most people feel extremely relaxed and often find themselves in a meditative state.
Book an Appointment
Our practice accepts insurance for patients. To best serve you, we can verify your insurance benefits before you arrive. Please click on the link below and complete the online form. I will contact you as soon as the benefits are established.