Frequently Asked Questions

Does Insurance cover acupuncture?

Yes, many insurance companies cover acupuncture! Here, at Garden Acupuncture we accept multiple insurance plans.

Please complete the insurance check form to confirm eligibility. The information required is located on your insurance card. Generally, it takes 24 hours to confirm eligibility, but we may be able to treat you on the same day.

What is Whole-System Traditional Chinese medicine (WS-TCM)?

TCM is one of the oldest medical systems in the world, and it originated in China over 3,000 years ago. It is an effective form of healthcare that treats interconnected body systems by balancing the energetic flow (Qi) within each person. WS-TCM is a safe and effective system of treatments that includes acupuncture, Chinese herbology, nutrition, and many more modalities to help patients become and stay well. WS-TCM promotes natural healing by enhancing recuperative power and immunity, supporting physical and emotional health, and improving overall function and well-being.

What problems can be treated with WS-TCM?

There are a wide variety of disorders, diseases, and ailments that can be treated with the WS-TCM including Head/Ear/Eyes/Nose/Throat, Respiratory, Cardiovascular, Gastrointestinal, Musculoskeletal, Genito-urinary, Neurological, Dermal/Skin, Emotional, and Gynecological issues. WS-TCM also increases energy and immunity, decreases stress, supports weight loss, and aids in addiction/smoking cessation.

How is WS-TCM explained via Western medicine?

Western Medical physicians are still learning how the body physiologically reacts to TCM. Studies show that it engages the central and peripheral nervous systems and initiates a sympathetic or parasympathetic response. TCM affects the stomach, intestines, and endocrine systems, which enables it to influence sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides within the bloodstream. It also activates the different brain centers, which is what enables Oriental Medicine to treat certain neurological disorders such as headaches, visual disturbances, and sleep disorders.

How Can Acupuncture Balance Qi and Regain Wellness?

Specific points, usually along the Meridians, allow acupuncture to access Qi. Each point is used in different ways depending on how Qi is disrupted. Fine needles activate Qi, enabling the body to begin to heal itself. The acupuncture needles are inserted into points according to the patient’s individual condition and, by manipulating the needles, Qi can be moved and the body rebalanced.

Do Acupuncture Needles Hurt?

Every patient has a different reaction to the needles. Occasionally, there is a slight pain that accompanies insertion, especially if the individual is uncommonly emotional or sensitive that particular day, but normally the needles are painless. After the needle is inserted, there may be a sensation of slight numbness, tingling, a dull ache, heat, cold, or heaviness in the area. This is normal and is called “De Qi,” or the arrival of Qi. It is a good sign and means that the treatment is working.

How Deep Do the Needles Go?

The depth of needle insertion depends on the area being needled and the size, age, and condition of the patient. Typically, needles are inserted at depths ranging from 1/8” to 1 ½”.

Are the Needles Clean?

All the needles are clean, sterile, and single-packaged for disposable use only.

What’s the Difference? Dry Needling vs Acupuncture

What is Ozone Sauna Therapy?

Ozone therapy uses a specialized sauna to hyper-oxygenate the body from the neck down. It’s a non-invasive, pain-free way to improve fertility, strengthen the immune system, combat viruses and bacteria, and improve circulation. It has been tested and used for both female and male fertility, skin disorders, joint problems, inflammatory illnesses, and more.

How does ozone Sauna therapy work?

Ozone (O3) is oxygen (O2) with an additional atom. Ozone therapy is safe when properly administered by trained professionals using specialized equipment. Ozone should not be inhaled, but it has a wide range of benefits when absorbed through the skin. We use an Ozone Sauna, which encloses a patient from the neck down in a comfortable egg-shaped pod. Unclothed, the body is infused with oxygen as temperatures rise to 101-110F, similar to a steam sauna. The body sweats and releases toxins, while fertility treatment targets the reproductive system to stimulate follicles.

What can I expect from ozone Sauna therapy?

Treatment consists of 30 minutes in the Ozone Sauna. It’s very important to prepare by eating a healthy meal and drinking lots of water prior to each session. As the therapy involves deep detoxification, there may be a short period of acclimation—antioxidants should be avoided two hours before and after your treatment. Please come well-hydrated. Most patients feel relaxed and energized after ozone therapy.

What is Chinese Herbology?

The use of Chinese herbs dates back over 3000 years. Chinese herbology often incorporates ingredients from all parts of the plant—for example, the leaf, stem, flower, and root. Minerals and animal nutrients are occasionally included as well. Every Chinese herb carries specific functions, properties, and temperatures, which combine to create a formula. Some ingredients are targeted towards the main concern; others guide the energy of the formula to a specific part of the body, while some herbs strengthen and increase the effectiveness of the formula. Each prescription is specific and individual, based on the patient’s condition.

How Do I Take My Herbs?

There are 3 methods of taking Chinese Herbs, which are commonly used today.

1. A raw herbal formula is the most effective way of taking herbs. It is the process of combining several raw herbs at exact dosages and boiling them for a specific time to maximize the strength of the formula. It is common for the practitioner to create a prescription and have the pharmacy fill it. The formula arrives, within 2-3 days, in individual doses of vacuum-packed bags.

2. Granules—the prepared form of raw herbs—are an extremely common form of taking Chinese herbs today. The pharmacy takes each individual raw herb and prepares them until they are finely ground. The practitioner writes a specific prescription, and the formula may be available directly at the office or delivered via the pharmacy. This is the most common form used at Garden Acupuncture.

3. Patent herbs are prepared formulas that come in pill form. They are based on traditional formulas. This is the easiest way to take Chinese Herbs but does not allow the practitioner to modify the formula specifically to a condition since they are already pre-packaged by the pharmacy.

How Long Will I Take My Herbs?

Generally, each formula is based on a weekly dose. It is important for your practitioner to speak to you while you are taking your herbs—as your condition changes your formula may need to be modified.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Poor diet, lack of exercise, mental or physical overexertion, physical and emotional trauma, stress, or extreme environmental conditions are among the many things that can affect the flow and balance of Qi. Normally, the body can easily compensate and bring itself back into balance and health. But illness, pain, or disease can occur when the imbalance is prolonged, excessive, or if the body is already weakened. Garden Acupuncture recommends 5-10 treatments while evaluating the condition prior to each appointment.

How Can I Prepare For My Treatment?

Come with any questions you might have. Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points. Try to refrain from eating very large meals or engaging in very strenuous workouts just before or after treatments. Do not come to your appointment on a totally empty stomach, especially on your first visit. It is also recommended to not use drugs or alcohol for up to 6 hours before or after the treatment. Between treatments, take note of any changes that have occurred, such as the alleviation of pain, pain moving to other areas, or changes in the nature or frequency of the problem.

What Can I Expect After the Treatment?

Most patients will notice some relief from their complaints after the treatment is over. This may last until the following morning or for a few days. It will depend on the nature of the disorder and how long it has been present. Generally, when the treatment is over patients feel energized or deeply relaxed.