Questions and Answers
DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?
The micro-thin needles are intended to be pain-free. Some areas of the body may be more sensitive than others; my patients describe that they mostly feel nothing, or sometimes a tiny pinch, that goes away almost instantly. However, sensations such as a warm or dull feeling is common.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL IT TAKE TO FEEL BETTER?
There is no easy answer to this question because every person is unique and requires different lengths of treatment. People get treated twice weekly, once a week, twice a month, once a month or less, depending on how acute or chronic the situation is. On average, for every year a condition existed, a month of regular treatment is required.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY ACUPUNCTURE APPOINTMENT?
Do not come on an empty stomach. Please eat at least a couple hours before your visit and wear loose comfortable clothes (or bring clothes to change into), as it is common to roll up a shirt sleeve or pant leg.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME AN ACUPUNCTURIST?
California requires four years of training at an accredited college to receive a Masters of Science of Traditional Oriental Medicine. Currently, a Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese/Oriental Medicine, is the highest level of education for this profession. To legally practice in California, acupuncturists must obtain their license by passing a state board exam.
WHAT IS TCM AND HOW LONG HAS IT BEEN AROUND?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been studied and practiced for over 4,000 years and has been recognized by the NIH and WHO. It offers a wide range of tools such as acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, and tui na, to treat the mind, body, and spirit. An introduction of foods, Chinese herbs, physical, and mental exercises may be given to facilitate the healing process. A non-pharmacologic approach for modern day ailments, traditional Chinese medicine is a safe method for treating your whole body.
WHAT DO THE INITIALS “DIPL OM” STAND FOR?
A Diplomate of Oriental Medicine is a practitioner who is certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM®) and has met the certification requirements for both acupuncture and Chinese herbology. It is a considerable professional achievement to earn the designation Diplomate of Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). NCCAOM certification indicates to employers, patients, and peers that one has met national standards for the safe and competent practice of acupuncture and Chinese herbology as defined by the acupuncture and Oriental medicine (AOM) profession. For additional information, about the Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, please visit the NCCAOM Website.
WHAT IS COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE?
Treatments are given in a community setting, treating multiple people together in a peaceful common room.
WHAT DO THE INITIALS “LAC” STAND FOR?
Licensed acupuncturist
WHAT DO THE INITIALS “DACM” / “DAOM” STAND FOR?
Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine / Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine