What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine is is the core therapy of traditional Chinese Medicine. It is a sophisticated method of administering hundreds of different types of herbs.  Each herb has a known quality, flavor and function in the body. Chinese medicine very rarely uses a single herb for treatment of a condition. Formulas are a combination of individual herbs, which could be anywhere from 1-2 herbs to as many as 30-40 herbs.  Many times, multiple formulas are also combined for an even more broad and effective formula.  Technology as allowed many advances in the processing and preparing of herbs.  At our clinic we use only granule powders and pills, which allows us to customize formulas and ensure that taking your herbs is as simple and effective as possible.  Chinese herbs are usually taken on a daily basis for a length of time determined by your condition and treatment plan.  

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Are Chinese herbs safe?

Yes.  When prescribed by a fully trained a licensed Chinese medical practitioner, the herbal formulas are safe and effective. We do not use any herbal products containing endangered species.  We use the highest quality pharmaceutical grade herbs which are rigorously tested to ensure safety and potency.  Our herbal formulas follow standards and guidelines set forth by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) of the United States, Japan and Taiwan. 

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What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine which is gaining more and more popularity in this country. During a treatment very thin, solid, hairlike needles are inserted at specific points on the body. The stimulation of these acupuncture points affects both the central and peripheral nervous systems. It triggers the release of the body’s internal chemicals such as endorphins and enkephalins, which have pain-relieving properties. The basic mechanism of acupuncture is the regulation of the nervous system and promotion of blood flow which increases nutrients and the bodies healing response to specific area or organs of the body. 

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Does Acupuncture hurt?

This is the most common question asked about acupuncture because many people associate needles with pain. Acupuncture needles are about the thickness of a dog’s whisker, so they are virtually painless when inserted. After insertion, the practitioner will bring the needle to the appropriate depth. You will then usually feel a very unique sensation that can vary from tingling, to heaviness, to warmth, or nothing at all. Each person’s experience is different. Should you experience any discomfort, inform the practitioner, and they will adjust the needles accordingly. All needles are sterilized and disposable.

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What can I expect during a treatment?

During your first consultation, the practitioner will collect a complete history and detailed evaluation of your condition. They will ask questions relating to many different aspects of your life, not only the condition for which you are seeking treatment. The practitioner will then take your pulse, examine your tongue, and sometimes palpate your abdomen or check for tender areas along the blood vessels. Treatment can be from 30-60 minutes. 

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How often do I have to come?

Treatments are usually done once or twice a week. Occasionally up to three times a week during the first two weeks for severe conditions and once a week after that. Once the condition has been controlled and you are symptom-free, the treatments are done less frequently. Problems that have been around for a long time usually take more treatments to resolve than ones that have come about recently. Your treatment course will be determined after the first visit and reassessed after each session.

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How many treatments will I need?

This depends upon the duration, severity, and nature of the complaint. Generally from 10 to 20 treatments are adequate for the majority of chronic disorders. Some acute conditions may only require a single treatment and some degenerative chronic conditions may require as many as 40 treatments. However, the patient has the right to expect that their major complaint will be addressed and treated in a direct and timely manner.

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How can I prepare for my session?

It is best to eat a light meal before your appointment so that your body has energy to work with. Sometimes a person who has not eaten will feel lightheaded or weak when receiving an acupuncture treatment. In this case, inform your practitioner immediately and they will take the appropriate actions. It is best to wear loose clothing so that the arms and legs below the elbows and knees, as well as the abdomen, are accessible. Do not engage in strenuous activity, drink alcohol, smoke excessively, or ingest heavy meals before or after your treatment. This will allow the body to adjust to the effects of the acupuncture.

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Can I receive Acupuncture if I am pregnant?

Yes. Because there are some points that are contraindicated during pregnancy, it is important to inform your practitioner if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant.

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Will my insurance cover my treatments?

We do not accept health insurance for acupuncture at this time.  However, we are happy to provide you with a receipt for you to use with your FLEX or health savings account for reimbursement. We accept cash, check and credit card. 

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More questions?

Please call us at 563-275-2330 or send us an email at brent@decorahwellnesscenter.com

We’re here to help you. 

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