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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.

Khin Gardner

Khin Gardner

Eun Hee Lim

Eun Hee Lim

The Science Behind Massage Therapy

Massage therapy involves the artful manipulation of muscles and soft tissues to restore balance within the body and alleviate discomfort. Employing techniques such as kneading, pressing, and rolling, it targets areas of tension to stimulate circulation and release blockages. This therapeutic practice enhances blood flow, supports the body’s natural healing processes, and promotes overall wellness and relaxation.

Scientific studies have shown that massage therapy can increase the activity of natural killer (NK) cells and T-cells, both critical components of the immune system. By reducing stress and inflammation, massage therapy can help strengthen the immune system and support recovery from illness.

The mechanical pressure applied during massage can stimulate sensory receptors in the skin, muscles, and joints, sending signals to the brain that modulate pain perception. This process, known as neuromodulation, can help reduce chronic pain and inflammation by inhibiting pain signals in the nervous system.

Massage reduces the production of cortisol (a stress hormone), promotes the release of endorphins (natural painkillers), and increases serotonin and dopamine levels, which help improve mood and emotional well-being.

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The massage therapists at our Virginia clinic offer a refined retreat into relaxation and healing. Expertly blending techniques—from invigorating deep tissue work to soothing Swedish massage—they skillfully dissolve muscle tension, enhance circulation, and elevate your overall well-being. Each session is tailored to your unique needs, providing a restorative experience that rejuvenates your body, calms your mind, and supports your health goals.

Massage

Virginia

The Benefits of Massage

Enhanced Immune Function

Regular massage therapy can boost the immune system by stimulating the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing toxins and waste from the body. By improving lymphatic circulation, massage helps increase the body's natural defense mechanisms, making it more resilient to infections and diseases.

Improved Circulation

Massage therapy enhances circulation by stimulating blood flow throughout the body. 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.

Stress Reduction

One of the most well-known benefits of massage is its ability to reduce stress and induce relaxation. Massage therapy lowers cortisol levels, which are often elevated during periods of stress. It also boosts the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that contribute to feelings of well-being and happiness. This combination makes massage an excellent method for managing stress and improving mental health.

Pain Relief

Massage therapy is highly effective in alleviating various types of pain, including chronic pain conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and arthritis. The techniques used in massage therapy help increase blood flow to the affected areas, reduce muscle tension, and promote the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers. This makes it a valuable tool for managing pain without the need for medication.

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