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Invest in your long-term health and happiness

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about acupuncture, massage, billing, or insurance? Explore our FAQ to discover all you need to know about our offerings, appointments, and more. Get quick answers and valuable insights to guide you on your journey to enhanced health and wellness.

The frequency of acupuncture visits varies depending on your individual needs and condition. Many patients start with weekly or monthly sessions, and the duration can range from a few months to longer, depending on the complexity of the issue. Your practitioner will develop a personalized treatment plan and advise you on the optimal frequency based on your specific situation. While some patients experience immediate relief from certain symptoms, addressing the root causes may require ongoing treatments. Your practitioner will guide you on what to expect and how best to achieve your wellness goals.

How often will I need to come in for acupuncture before I see results?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the areas being treated. If necessary, your practitioner will guide you on how to adjust your clothing privately and will provide appropriate coverings for your comfort.

What should I wear for my acupuncture or massage treatment?

Acupuncture is a versatile treatment used to address a wide range of issues. It is particularly effective for chronic conditions, including pain management, stress relief, and digestive disorders. For complex cases, we recommend consulting with one of our acupuncturists to discuss how acupuncture and/or herbs might benefit you.

What can acupuncture be used to treat?

You don’t need to bring anything specific, but if you have any relevant bloodwork or test results, please bring them along. Before your in-clinic visit, you’ll complete some basic information and consent forms. We will also conduct a virtual Chinese medicine intake to tailor your treatment.

Should I bring anything with me to my appointment?

Yes, we do accept insurance for acupuncture. Please check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and benefits before your appointment.

Do you accept insurance for acupuncture treatments?

Acupuncture is a personalized treatment that can benefit many people. During your initial consultation, your acupuncturist will assess your health and discuss your goals to determine if acupuncture is a suitable option for you.

How do I know if acupuncture is right for me?

During your first visit, your acupuncturist will conduct a thorough assessment of your health history and current concerns. They will then develop a treatment plan and insert needles at specific points to address your needs.

What should I expect during my first acupuncture visit?

It is advisable to always inform your physician about any treatment that you are seeking and it is also very important to have a list of medications and supplements that you are taking available during your first consultation with your acupuncturist. Some physicians will also refer acupuncture and Oriental medicine practitioners to patients.

Should I consult with a physician?

Children of all ages are treated and respond well to acupuncture and Chinese herbal treatment. In addition, young children or those apprehensive of the use of acupuncture needles may be treated without needles using Asian bodywork and/or electrical probes. In addition, herbal formulas are usually prescribed to enhance the acupuncture treatments and to provide further care between treatments as well.

Can children be treated with acupuncture?

Herbal medicine, also known as Herbology is one of the primary modalities within the scope of Oriental medicine. Herbology includes treatment with substances such as plants, roots, minerals and more. Like acupuncture, Herbology has evolved as an integral part of Oriental medicine and is used to reharmonize imbalances in the body.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines herbal medicines to include herbs, herbal materials, herbal preparations and finished herbal products that contain as active ingredients parts of plants, or other plant materials, or combinations. Formulas are comprised of herbs designed for each individual patient. This special formulation is crucial because these formulas must be delicately composed for the purpose of achieving balance in each disharmonious state of being. Even small deviations in dosage or herb composition can change the entire focus of the formula and therefore, the results.

Can you tell me more about herbal treatment?

Usually, a series of treatments are necessary to resolve a condition. Each case and condition is treated individually. A consultation is required to determine requirements. Treatments can be between 45 to 90 minutes in length with the first consultation usually lasting longer. It is best to consult with an NCCAOM certified practitioner for more details about your specific treatment plan.

How many treatments will I need?

Most patients have stated that there is little or no pain as very fine, sterile, disposable needles are used. Treatments are available without the use of needles through Asian Bodywork Therapy.

Does acupuncture treatment hurt?

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The Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM) is the educational institution behind VUIM Clinics. The university offers acupuncture and herbal medicine programs to a global student body, with degrees at the Master’s and Doctoral levels. A widely respected organization, VUIM produces graduates who are known for their professionalism, expertise, and compassionate care.

Our School

Excellence in Education and Wellness

Patient-Centered Care

The curriculum teaches a patient-first approach, ensuring students are equipped to build strong, compassionate relationships with those they treat.

Chinese Medicine

Students learn to approach health as a balance of body, mind, and spirit, embodying the core philosophy of East Asian Medicine.

Interdisciplinary Learning

Students are immersed in both acupuncture and herbal medicine, gaining a deep understanding of how these practices work together to support holistic health.

Cutting-Edge Research

VUIM integrates the latest research in integrative medicine, ensuring students stay up-to-date with advances in acupuncture and herbal medicine.

Evidence-Based Practices

While rooted in traditional medicine, VUIM’s programs also incorporate evidence-based approaches to ensure graduates are equipped to deliver effective, modern care.

Global Community

Students from around the world come to VUIM to study, creating a diverse and vibrant learning environment.

Flexible Learning

With programs offered in multiple languages and adaptable schedules, students can find a path that fits their lifestyle.

Whole-Person Health

We promote a philosophy of whole-person wellness, teaching students to approach health with compassion, balance, and mindfulness.

Accredited Excellence

Our programs are accredited, ensuring that students receive top-tier education recognized across the healthcare industry.

Our Story

The Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM) has been shaking up the world of Acupuncture and East Asian Medicine since its founding in 2004. As the first institution in Virginia to offer accredited programs in this field, VUIM has been at the forefront of blending tradition with innovation.

 

Today, the university offers a four-year Master of Science in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (MAcHM) and a three-year Master of Science in Acupuncture (MAc)—with programs in English, Chinese, and Korean.

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Successful Graduates

2500+

15+

3

10k+

Programs Offered
Clinical Practices
Treatments Given
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