Acupuncture is the practice of painlessly inserting hair-thin needles into prescribed points on the body to illicit therapeutic benefit. It has been safely employed for almost 3000 years as a means to effectively treat a wide variety of health concerns.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have found acupuncture to be effective in the treatment of:
If you are currently struggling with any of the above concerns then acupuncture can afford you relief. It should be noted that if your particular health concern is not listed above it does not mean that acupuncture cannot help you. It just means that the WHO has yet to complete its research on that particular condition. It is recommended that you speak with your acupuncturist to determine your candidacy for the therapy.
Common Questions
What Can I Expect for My First Treatment?
Before starting any treatment protocol patient condition and constitution must first be determined. To do this, your acupuncturist will likely ask you many questions and evaluate your tongue and pulse. At first, these investigations may seem unrelated to your current health concern but they are actually required to assess your current state of energy flow. Your acupuncturist will then select the acupoints best suited to restore the balance of energy and these acupoints will receive Acupuncture.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
While patients will likely feel the insertion of the acupuncture needles it is rarely pain that they experience. Unlike the syringes employed for vaccinations and obtaining blood, acupuncture needles are thin and solid. In fact, one could fit approximately 3-6 acupuncture needles inside of the shaft of an average syringe. This thinness accounts for the painless application of acupuncture needles.
Are the Needles Ever Reused?
Registered Acupuncturists always use new needles that are sealed in sterile packages. These packages are opened only at time of use. After the end of the treatment, the needles are withdrawn and safely disposed of. They are never used for Acupuncture again.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
While it is not surprising for some patients to receive dramatic results with just one session such is not necessarily the common experience. Many patients, especially those with dealing with chronic conditions, will require more than one session. Maintenance programs are best achieved by having a few frequent treatments and then gradually widening the intervals between treatments.
Are Acupuncture Treatments Covered by My Extended Health Benefits?
Many extended health plans cover Acupuncture. The extent of coverage will, of course, vary depending on the provider and plan being used. It’s best to speak directly with your plan’s provider to see how much coverage you are entitled to.
Are Acupuncture Treatments Covered by MSP?
Acupuncture is currently covered by MSP for those patients on premium assistance. Those who qualify are entitled to $23 per treatment and up to 10 treatments per year. Patients must provide confirmation of their eligibility and will be required to pay for services in full. Claim cards will be issued at the time of treatment and patients must then submit these to MSP to receive their reimbursement.
For more information about the Catapang Clinic or to book an appointment – please contact us by phone or email.