Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture

What about needles, are they safe? Does it hurt?

Acupuncture needles are extremely thin, no thicker than two human hairs. The needles have no resemblance to a hypodermic syringe. The needles are individually packaged, sterilized, and disposed of after each use. Most needles are inserted just beneath the skin. Sensations vary from person to person, ranging from nothing at all to a brief ache or heaviness in the area being needled. Some points are more sensitive than others. By and large patients describe the sensations as fleeting and the treatment experience as deeply relaxing.

Why would I see an acupuncturist?

Many patients begin acupuncture treatment to find relief from a wide range of physical conditions. Many who are not experiencing ailments also seek treatment to maximize their wellness and maintain balance. The greatest reason to begin acupuncture treatment is to cultivate vitality and health and to stimulate the tremendous healing power of the body, mind and spirit.

What do patients report after receiving ongoing acupuncture treatments?

Patients who receive treatment report getting sick less often, improvement of vitality and stamina, and reductions in long term health care costs. A recent survey of people who receive acupuncture, conducted by Claire Cassidy, Ph.D., indicates that they see their physicians less frequently and use fewer medications. Over two thirds of those surveyed reported having avoided recommended surgery. In addition, patients have reported an overall enhancement in their well-being and an improved state of mind.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

A growing number of insurance companies will reimburse for acupuncture treatments. Consult your insurer for the terms of coverage on your policy. However, full payment is due at the time of each treatment. A receipt will be given after each treatment for patients to submit for insurance reimbursement.

How does acupuncture work?

This highly effective system of medical care is based on natural laws, which govern the movement of vital life giving energy, both in nature and in the body. This energy, called "Qi", moves through the body in precise channels supporting functions of the body, mind and spirit. When the chi is moving disharmoniously, imbalance begins to surface in the form of specific symptoms. To address the underlying cause of a condition, these symptoms are viewed in relationship to the totality of a person. The gentle insertion of hair thin needles at specific points along the channels, help restore harmony. In the presence of this subtle yet profound intervention, symptoms often resolve and patients frequently experience renewed vitality.

How frequently do I need to come to benefit from treatment?

The frequency of treatments varies with each individual. In the beginning, after the first two hour intake, you will be seen in weekly one hour sessions. As internal harmony is created and you begin to experience improvement in your condition and enjoy a greater sense of ease in life, usually after 4-8 weeks, I will begin to see you every other week, every three weeks, monthly, and eventually seasonally. This will vary for each individual.

Do I have to believe in Acupuncture for it to work?

Acupuncture is effective whether or not you believe in it. The proof comes from the positive results seen after treatments on children and animals.

Massage Therapy

Why would I get a massage?

Massage can be helpful on every level of the body, mind and spirit. It engages the relaxation response in the body needed for healing and rejuvenation. It can release muscle tension and spasms anywhere in the body due to stress, exercise or injury. Your massage therapist will help you determine the best massage for your needs.

How do I get the most out of my massage?

We recommend that you drink plenty of water both before and after your session to help your body cleanse itself of toxins released during your massage. It is recommended that you allow sufficient time after your session for the body to integrate the work that has been done. You should avoid over exertion, excessive alcohol consumption and get plenty of rest.

How frequently should I get massage?

For the maximum benefit to your overall health and well-being, massage should be scheduled on a regular basis. However, benefits will be felt even from a one time visit.

What do I wear during a massage?

All of our massage therapists are licensed by the state of Maryland and have been trained in appropriate draping. You will be asked to remove your clothing but you will be covered the entire time by one or more sheets depending upon the body part being worked on at the time. It is with the utmost respect for your comfort and privacy that we maintain a strict draping policy.

Doula Services

Why use a doula?

The word doula means servant in Greek. Our doulas are committed to helping you achieve your optimal birth experience. Statistics show that women who use a doula are more satisfied with their birth experience, have a lower need for medical intervention and that labors tend to be shorter with fewer complications*.

Will the doula replace my partner in the birthing room?

No, the doula is there to facilitate the best possible team for your support. She will be there to support both the mother and birth partner. Husbands and partners report that they felt they were better able to serve the laboring mothering with the gentle guidance of the doula. She holds the entire new family with support and tender loving care and helps with comforting touch, positional changes, and constant emotional support.

When do we call our doula?

The doula is available any time the week before and after your due date. She generally arrives at the birth when active labor begins, but will come to you aid whenever you need her. She will be in frequent phone contact with you leading up to your birth, and on your birthing day, she will be there when you request her presence either at your home or at the facility where will you give birth.

We are not sure if we are committed to a natural birth, will a doula still be helpful if we chose a medicated birth?

Absolutely. Statistics have proven that having a doula present at your birth will great lower your need for medical intervention *. She is a highly trained expert in the birthing field and will help you to navigate your choices with informed consent. She will be your advocate but all medical decisions will ultimately be made by the birthing couple. She will support whatever decisions you make. The doula also helps you with breast feeding after your baby is born and is a useful resource to help mitigate some of the side effects of birthing and side effects of the medications used during birth.

*see www.dona.org for more statistical information