​Frequently Asked Questions            



​Is acupuncture safe? 
Yes, acupuncture is a proven safe therapy. There are many positive side effects of acupuncture, such as a sense of relaxation and well-being after treatments. Other positive side effects are calmness, improved sleep, and mental alertness. Although rare, a small number of patients have mild and self-correcting reactions to the procedure, such as minor bruising at the needlepoint, dizziness or light-headedness. 

Are acupuncture needles safe?
I only use pre-sterilized, surgical steel needles. They are disposed following use. 
 
Is acupuncture painful? 
Most patients do not experience pain during acupuncture. Some experience sensations during initial needle insertion including  pressure, very mild dull achiness, warming, cooling, or heaviness.
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How many treatments will I need?
Acupuncture therapy is a process, much like physical or occupational therapy. Health problems usually do not appear overnight, and, similarly, they can rarely can be treated with just one visit. Each treatment builds upon the previous session. The number of treatments you will need depends on the severity and length of your condition, compliance with lifestyle and dietary recommendations, and the overall state of your health. 
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What is cosmetic acupuncture?
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture is a safe alternative to cosmetic surgery, Botox injection, silicone filler, and other invasive cosmetic procedures. It is effective, cost-efficient and provides overall health benefit. Tamara holds certification in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture.
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Is acupuncture beneficial for healthy people? 
Acupuncture is an effective practice for health maintenance. It has tremendous ability to enhance immunity, overall vitality, and energy. Many people use preventive acupuncture treatments as a way to maintain physical and emotional health, create a deep sense of relaxation, and increase overall wellbeing. 

Can acupuncture help women get pregnant?
According to a publication of the British Medical Journal, women who received acupuncture during IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) increased their chances of conception by 65% (Manheimer E, Zhang G, Udoff L, et al, Effect of acupuncture on rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing in vitro fertilization: systematic review and meta-analysis. Published online February 2008. )
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Additional Information...

Is acupuncture good for elderly people?
Acupuncture promotes physical and emotional health, increased vitality and immune function, and reduced pain in people of all ages. 

What is the difference between a licensed acupuncturist and a physician, chiropractor, or a physical therapist who perform acupuncture?
There is a huge difference! To become a licensed acupuncturist in the US, students must complete an accredited graduate level program, pass three exams with by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), and execute extensive practicums. Physicians, Chiropractors, and Physical Therapists do not need to hold a license in acupuncture and thus often do not have as extensive training or testing. Learn more here:
Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
Please consult your insurance company, as terms of coverage vary by policy. If your policy includes acupuncture benefits, we will provide you with an itemized receipt to support your insurance claim. We are not able to file directly with your insurance for reimbursement at this time.

Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts almost always cover acupuncture; however, please check your policy to be certain.  
 
What conditions can acupuncture help?
Click here to see answers to this question. If you have questions on a specific health condition, reach us at 704-651-9585 or email Tamara@CharlotteAcupunctureTherapy.com