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Invest in your long-term health and happiness

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about acupuncture, massage, or other services at our Virginia practice? 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?

Give the gift of better health with a VUIM Clinic gift card. Ideal for friends and loved ones, our gift cards can be used at our Vienna, Virginia location for any of our transformative services – including acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and herbal medicine. It’s a thoughtful gesture to support their journey towards optimal health and a more balanced life.

Give the Gift of Wellness: Unlock Healing

Meet The Team

The skilled team of acupuncturists, massage therapists, and holistic health experts at our Virginia practice seamlessly blends traditional medicine with modern care. Committed and insightful, we design rejuvenating treatments that balance, align, and energize your life, promoting overall wellness and vitality.

Yu Cheng

Yu Cheng

Dr. Lixing Lao

Dr. Lixing Lao

Dr. Haley Parker

Dr. Haley Parker

The Science Behind Cupping

Cupping harnesses the body's natural healing response through targeted suction. The negative pressure from the cups increases blood circulation, alleviates muscle tension, encourages lymphatic drainage, and stimulates endorphin release to help reduce pain.

The gentle pulling action of the suction lifts and separates the skin and underlying tissues. This encourages the movement of stagnant lymphatic fluid toward lymph nodes, where it can be filtered and eliminated.

The suction created by the cups pulls blood to the surface, which can improve circulation in the area and promote healing by increasing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients.

By stimulating the skin and underlying tissues, cupping can activate the body's natural pain-relief mechanisms and promote the release of endorphins, which can help reduce pain and enhance overall comfort.

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Cupping therapy is a dynamic healing practice rooted in ancient Chinese and Egyptian medicine. By creating gentle suction on targeted areas, cupping invigorates your body’s natural recovery mechanisms, enhances circulation, eases muscle tension, and stimulates the flow of energy and nutrients. Available at our Virginia location, cupping offers a unique, restorative experience designed to rejuvenate your body and promote healing.

Cupping

Virginia

The Benefits of Cupping

Inflamation Reduction

Cupping's suction helps draw out excess fluids and promote the breakdown of inflammatory cells in targeted areas. This can help reduce pain and swelling, which supports a faster, more natural healing response in injured or stressed tissues.

Improved Circulation

Cupping enhances circulation by stimulating blood flow throughout the treated areas. Improved circulation helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs more efficiently, aiding in the removal of metabolic waste. This can lead to better overall health and quicker recovery from injuries and illnesses.

Natural Healing

The body's ability to repair itself is enhanced with the use of cupping. Improving circulation, reducing inflammation, relieving tension, and supporting the detoxification process allows for a holistic approach to healing, whether it's used for injury recovery, chronic pain management, or general wellness.

Stress Reduction

By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension, cupping can help decrease stress and anxiety levels. The therapy induces a state of relaxation similar to that of a deep tissue massage, which can have calming effects on the mind and body.

Detoxification

Cupping therapy can help remove toxins from the body by stimulating the lymphatic system. This detoxifying effect can improve the body's natural ability to cleanse itself, promoting better overall health.

Pain Relief

Cupping can alleviate muscle tension, stiffness, and pain, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders. It helps improve blood flow to the affected areas, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

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