Hello and welcome to my practice! I am delighted you’ve chosen to take steps to improve your health and I look forward to supporting you in that effort. This letter is to help you know what to expect during your first and subsequent treatments and to answer any questions you may have about acupuncture and my practice.
Commonly Asked Questions:
What is Acupuncture and how does it work?
Originating in ancient China, acupuncture is perhaps one of the oldest medical systems in the world. It has developed through continuous practical experience over thousands of years. Chinese philosophy teaches that we have qi (or ch’i-energy) that flows through channels in our body, similar to blood pathways that, when flowing freely, we have good health. When the flow is weak or obstructed a person becomes susceptible to disease. The symptoms of disease can manifest not only within the physical body, but also in our minds and emotions. A Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) is trained to identify blockages or if you have excesses or deficiencies in one part of the body and not in the other. A Licensed acupuncturist treats these imbalances by inserting very fine needles-approximately the thickness of a human hair into specific points on the body. Acupuncture works to restore and maintain this balance, so one can return to full health. In my experience when your energy is balanced and supported, you will be better able to face challenges and recover from stresses. Healthy choices become easy; creativity, joy, mental focus and better sleep come naturally.
What conditions are treated by Acupuncture?
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institute of Health (NIH) suggest acupuncture as an effective or therapeutic treatment for:
Depression, anxiety, stress, addictions, obesity, chronic pain, fatigue, insomnia, PMS, menstrual cramps, allergies, weak immunity, digestive disorders, carpal tunnel, back pain, sciatica, sinusitis, infertility, asthma, headaches, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, morning sickness, high blood pressure, knee pain, low back pain, nausea, rheumatoid arthritis, sprain, tennis elbow, dysmenorrhea, adverse reactions to chemo and radiation, sprain and strains, herpes zoster, earache, diabetes, menieres disease, sexual dysfunction, neuralgia, labor pain, Reynaud syndrome, retention of urine, adrenal exhaustion, stubborn skin disorders.
How many treatments will I need?
Everyone responds differently to treatment, some experience results after the first session and others require 4-6 sessions to take notice. Each session builds upon the preceding session. It is common for treatments to take place weekly for the first
4-6weeks. The energy balance obtained by treatment will last progressively longer periods of time, allowing for subsequent treatments to be spaced farther apart. Once symptoms have subsided and you are feeling well again, it is advised to maintain treatment once per month or at the change of each season to afford maximum preventative effect.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very fine-approximately the thickness of a human hair. You may feel sensations such as a dull ache, a feeling of pressure or tingling in the area for a second or two. Every point is different and some are more sensitive than others. Erica is very sensitive to your experience and makes you as comfortable as possible.
Classical five-element acupuncture (which is the main form of acupuncture used in this office) emphasizes very precise point location and direct needling, needles are rarely retained in the skin and the practitioner is in the room creating a symbiotic treatment. The needles are made from the finest quality surgical stainless steel, and are pre-sterilized and discarded after each use. On average Erica uses 6-8 needles per session.
What is classical five-element acupuncture?
Classical five-element acupuncture focuses on getting to the root cause of the problem. We view symptoms as distress signals that indicate something deeper that needs care and attention. Classical five-element acupuncture never separates one’s physical symptoms from their mental and emotional health. I treat the whole person every time and in doing so I often witness more permanent improvements than treatment of the symptoms alone. By treating the whole person, patients often report additional unexpected changes such as greater joy, vitality, more energy, mental clarity and improved sleep. Patients often become more engaged in their family, friends and community. One of my greatest compliments is when I hear patients say, “I feel like myself again.”
What qualifies a practitioner?
The standards for the practice of acupuncture vary from state to state. In the state of Colorado a practitioner must first obtain a masters degree in oriental medicine and acupuncture. This is typically a 4-year in classroom program that consists of comprehensive knowledge in western sciences, biomedicine, pharmacology, western medical testing, oriental medicine, assessment in both western and eastern medicine, diagnosis, clinical internship and over 700 hours of supervised clinical treatments. Upon graduation students are required to sit for three medical board exams in western medicine, eastern medicine and acupuncture points and prescriptions. After passing all board exams they have earned the title of Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac). Look for these initials after ones name to assure you are receiving the best-qualified practitioner.
What can I expect at my first session?
Erica’s office is comfortable, clean and professional. It will be easy to feel at home here. We will begin with a conversation about your medical and personal history, your reason for seeking treatment and any events or experiences that contribute to your overall health goals or challenges. After our conversation, we will do some diagnostic testing followed by a treatment.
This initial visit will last 90 minutes. Please do not wear any makeup or scented products and be sure to have eaten or not be too hungry coming in. Follow-up treatments last up to 1 hour.
Stay up to date with our Newsletter
