Southwest Acupuncture College

What kind of diseases can acupuncture treat?

Allergies, arthritis (osteo), asthma, backache, bronchitis, bursitis, cataract, cardiovascular, children's health, common cold, conjunctivitis, depression, digestive disorders, rheumatism, duodenal ulcer, dysentery, fibroids, headaches, hearing loss, hemorrhoids, hiccups, hypertension, hypoglycemia, insomnia, irritability, joint pain, low energy, mastitis, menstrual problems, muscle strain, migraines, neck pain, obesity, post-partum care, preventive health, psoriasis, sciatica, sinitus, sexual dysfunction, shoulder pain, smoking, tendonitis, toothache, tonsillitis, urinary problems, and many others.

What can I expect during my treatment?

Your practitioner will carefully evaluate your personal condition by asking questions about past and present medical history, taking the pulses, observing the tongue, and palpating various areas of the body for tenderness. After arriving at a specific diagnostic conclusion, one or several of the following techniques will be incorporated:

Needles: Thin, sterile, stainless steel needles are placed in specific acupuncture points. The needles are at least five times thinner than typical hypodermic needles and insertion is usually painless. You may feel a dull ache or tingling sensation when the needle is stimulated. Acupuncture is generally a very relaxing experience.

Moxibustion: Moxa is a Chinese herb (mugwort) which is rolled into sticks or cones and burned above the skin. This aromatic herb creates a sensation which is warming and pleasant and regulates the qi.

Herbs: Herbology is an intrinsic aspect of Oriental medicine. Herbs may be prescribed to reduce acute conditions or as a dietary supplement which will build and strengthen the body.

Electric Stimulation: Very low level electrical current may be applied to the needle or to the skin. This is often used for muscle spasms and acupuncture analgesia and to enhance point stimulation in general.

Massage: Massage and body work are often applied in coordination with needling to aid relaxation and facilitate the movement of qi.

Can acupuncture needles spread disease?

No! Our acupuncturists use sterile disposable needles. These needles are used once. These needles are used to stimulate one point on the body and then are properly disposed. All other equipment used in the clinic is sterilized according to Environmental Protection Agency standards to protect against the transmission of infectious diseases.

What is expected of me during and after treatment?

This time has been set aside solely for you. Relax and allow the healing process to occur. Feel free to ask questions or voice any concerns which arise during the treatment. Trust that all information is confidential. The treatment does not end when the needles are removed. Acupuncture has initiated a change within the body, and now it is your right and responsibility to insure that these positive patterns are fostered. If possible, take some time to relax directly after your treatment. Most importantly, take an active part in your health care. Your practitioner will be happy to discuss diet and lifestyle changes which will best benefit your specific condition. Occasionally some symptoms of illness may temporarily increase after treatment. This is known as a healing crisis, a positive sign that the body is rallying its strength to move old blockages and patterns of disease so that a balanced flow of energy may reestablish. Notify your practitioner of any aggravation of symptoms.

Because acupuncture regulates energy, it is important that when you arrive for treatment you are not exhausted, not too hungry, or too full! Under no circumstances should you have consumed alcoholic beverages or recreational drugs. If there is any chance you are pregnant please stress this to your student practitioner. If you experience any disagreeable problems as a result of herbal therapy, please call the clinic. We will have the clinical supervisor give you a call to talk to you.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of treatments needed to alleviate a disorder varies depending on the type of illness and the individual. Generally, acute diseases can be treated successfully within a few treatments. Chronic problems which have taken years to develop will not be "cured" overnight. Change over time will reflect the gradual restoration of the body's strength and vitality. In the patient's best interest you may be referred to a private practitioner or other health care provider.

Will treatments be covered by my insurance?

The college does not process forms for insurance reimbursement. If the patient’s insurance covers acupuncture, the patient will need to apply for reimbursement. The college will provide the patient with documentation of treatment and cost.