Clear answers for common questions about acupuncture.
What Is Acupuncture?
What Is Qi?
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Why Do They Need To Feel My Pulse?
Why Do They Want To Look At My Tongue?
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
What Should I Expect During Treatment?
How Should I Prepare?
How Safe Is Acupuncture?
Why Did My Acupuncturist Recommend Herbs?
Will My Insurance Cover Acupuncture?
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a therapy developed more that 2000 years ago in Asia that consists
of stimulating designated points on the skin by the insertion of needles in order
to restore and balance the body’s energy or *Qi*(pronounced chee). These are gateways
through which the practitioner exerts influence upon organs and functions, stimulating
and activating the body’s self-healing mechanisms. It is a part of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, (TCM) which also includes the application of electrical stimulation, heat,
acupressure, diet, and Herbal Medicine.
back to top
What Is Qi?
Qi is the substance of life. As the basis of the universe’s infinite manifestations,
Qi is present in all life forms. Pathways of Qi run throughout the body and are
known as meridians or channels. Each channel is linked to a particular organ. These
channels are the paths along which Qi flows, supplying life and energy to every
cell. When systemic Qi flow is blocked, disharmony is crested and we experience
disease.
back to top
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Its theoretical basis is that everyone is born with a fixed amount of energy at
birth. The Qi flows through the body along invisible pathways referred to as “meridians”.
Chinese Medicine is based on the discovery that certain areas of the skin are related
to internal body organs and specific bodily functions. Insertion of very fine needles,
sometimes combined with electrical stimulation and heat, serves to unblock and stimulate
energy in the meridians and allow the Qi to flow freely and sufficiently once again.
back to top
Why Do They Need To Feel
My Pulse?
There are 12 pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate.
Each position corresponds to s specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will
be looking for 27 individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are
any problems, they may appear in the pulse.
back to top
Why Do They Want To Look
At My Tongue?
The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs
and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating
on your tongue.
back to top
How Many Treatments Will
I Need?
The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience
immediate relief, others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic
conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan a minimum of month
to see significant changes.
back to top
What Should I Expect During
Treatment?
Where the acupuncture needle has been inserted, you may experience a vague
numbness, heaviness, tingling, or dull ache. Sometimes people experience a sensation
of energy spreading and moving around the needle. This is called the “Qi sensation”.
All these reactions are good and a sign that the treatment is working. After treatment,
you may feel energized or may experience a deep sense of relaxation and well being.
back to top
How Safe Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug free therapy, with
no side effects except the feeling of relaxation and well being. There is little
or no danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used
once, and then discarded.
back to top
Why Did My Acupuncturist
Recommend Herbs?
Herbs can be a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They are used to strengthen,
build and support the body or to clear it of excess problems like a cold, fever
or acute pain. Your practitioner may suggest starting acupuncture and then add herbs
to your treatment in the future. This is suggested to build up your internal strength
so you can receive the full benefits acupuncture has to offer.
back to top
Will My Insurance Cover
Acupuncture?
Insurance coverage varies from state to state. We are considered in-network
with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Oxford, Healthnet, and Landmark. In order to
receive payment Acupuncture must be a covered benefit
under your specific plan. We also participate with American Health Specialties which
offer a discounted rated. Discounted rate are offered Senior Citizens. Most automobile
accident insurances will cover acupuncture.
back to top
1318 Hamburg Turnpike
Wayne, NJ 07470
973 628 8335
Need Directions?
100 E Hanover Ave
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927
973 538 8700
Need Directions?
If you're unable to find relief from anxiety, chronic pain of muscles or bones, we offer safe, natural and effective alternatives for healthier living.
Copyright © 2025 Acupuncture Herb Center of Wayne. All rights reserved.