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.
The Science Behind Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine has been used for centuries to treat a broad spectrum of health conditions. Scientific research now supports its effectiveness in areas such as respiratory infections, type 2 diabetes, fertility, and chronic pain management. It has been shown to help regulate hormones, enhance immune function, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation, making herbal medicine beneficial for managing conditions like liver disease, cardiovascular health, and even cancer support. Research has also shown that certain Chinese herbs can boost cognitive function, improve fertility outcomes, and aid in gastrointestinal health. With its proven ability to address both acute and chronic conditions, herbal medicine offers a powerful, natural approach to promoting overall well-being and healing.
Chinese herbal medicine is increasingly being studied for its potential in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Herbs like Ginkgo biloba and Curcuma longa may improve cognitive function and reduce oxidative stress in patients with early-stage Alzheimer's.
Chinese herbal medicine is sometimes used alongside conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation to improve outcomes and reduce side effects. Herbs like Astragalus (Huang Qi) and Ginseng (Ren Shen) are known for their immune-boosting effects, improving the body's ability to fight cancer. Other herbs, such as Oldenlandia diffusa and Scutellaria barbata, have demonstrated anti-tumor and anti-metastatic properties in preclinical studies.
Chinese herbal medicine could significantly lower fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c levels when used in conjunction with conventional diabetes treatments. Several Chinese herbs, including Coptis chinensis (huanglian) and Panax ginseng (ren shen), have been shown in studies to improve blood sugar regulation and insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Our Virginia clinic offers personalized herbal medicine treatments that blend traditional Chinese medicine remedies with modern wellness practices. Our skilled practitioners harness the power of ancient modalities to enhance your body’s natural healing, address a range of health concerns, and promote vitality. Each treatment is customized to your unique needs and designed to harmonize and invigorate your well-being.
Herbal Medicine
Virginia
The Benefits of Herbal Medicine
Accessibility and Affordability
Herbal remedies are generally more accessible and affordable than many pharmaceutical drugs. Many herbs can be grown at home or are available at a lower cost than prescription medications. This makes herbal medicine an attractive option for people in various economic situations and can provide an accessible means of healthcare in areas where conventional medicine may be limited.
Holistic Approach
Herbal medicine often takes a holistic approach to health, focusing on treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms. This means considering the patient's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. By addressing the root cause of a health issue and promoting overall balance within the body, herbal medicine can contribute to long-term health and wellness.
Fewer Side Effects
Compared to synthetic drugs, herbal medicines typically have fewer and milder side effects. This is because they are derived from natural sources and are often used in their whole form, which can mitigate the adverse effects associated with isolated compounds found in conventional medications. This makes herbal medicine a suitable option for individuals seeking gentler treatment alternatives.
Natural Healing
Herbal medicine leverages the natural properties of plants to promote healing and wellness. Many herbs contain compounds that have therapeutic effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. These natural remedies can help support the body's own healing processes and are often used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin disorders.