Treatments
HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?
Most styles of acupuncture involve the insertion of very fine needles into specific acupuncture points located around the body or on the ear. There are many different lengths and gauges of needles used. They are all sterilized, disposable, one-time-use needles. These are standard procedures designed to maximize the cleanliness and hygiene of the acupuncture treatment.
The insertion of acupuncture needles can range from being completely painless to eliciting some momentary sharp sensations, which usually disappear as soon as the needle has penetrated the skin. Subsequent needle stimulation by the practitioner can elicit a range of sensations from a dull ache to tingling sensations around the needle. Â Since acupuncture points lie on meridians, it is not unusual for the patient to feel the propagation of sensations to other parts of the body.
It is most common for the patient, once the needles have been inserted, to feel deeply relaxed. Should any feelings of discomfort develop or persist, alert your practitioner. They may be able to lessen the discomfort. Occasionally, the removal of an acupuncture needle can produce a hematoma or bruise under the skin. These are temporary and usually disappear within a few days.
Adjunctive Treatments
Cupping
Cupping techniques involve the application of suction to areas of the body to relieve what is referred to in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as stagnation. This promotes the circulation of Qi in the area treated. Glass or plastic cups are applied to the designated area and suction is created within the cups. Cupping techniques may produce a red or purple color on the body area treated. This may remain for
1-5 days following treatment.
Electrical Stimulation
Electrical stimulation or electroacupuncture of inserted acupuncture needles may be used. It helps to move Qi and Blood and eliminate stagnation. This typically produces a vibrating or tapping sensation on the needles, which can be felt by the person as heaviness, ache or pressure. It can be used for muscle pain, tightness, paralysis, numbness and tingling.
Gua Sha
Gua Sha involves scraping the skin (to which a lubricant such as massage oil has been applied) using the edge of a porcelain spoon in a repeated fashion. This procedure is used to remove what in TCM is referred to as stagnation. It is usually used in areas of muscle tightness or pain. It may produce redness, dark red or even purple area on the skin that can remain for 1-5 days following the treatment. A slight bruising and tenderness may persist after the treatment.
Acupuncture Services
Initial Consultation includes the following:
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Health History Review
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Tongue Evaluation
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Pulse Diagnostics
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Nutritional and/or Supplement Recommendations as appropriate
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Acupuncture treatment and Adjunctive techniques as needed (i.e. heat lamp, cupping, press balls etc) (these may be completed on a different day depending upon insurance requirements)
Services are payable in full on the day of your visit. Blue Cross Blue Shield is the only insurance accepted for acupuncture at this time. Insurance reimbursement is dependent upon your individual plan and corresponding co-pay or percentage that is your responsibility. Any insurance claims that are denied will be the responsibility of the patient to be paid in full. It is your responsibility to know and understand what services/visits are or are not covered under acupuncture benefits.
APPOINTMENTS THAT ARE NOT KEPT OR NOT CANCELED AT LEAST 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE ARE SUBJECT TO A "NO SHOW" FEE WHICH IS THE FULL COST OF THE APPOINTMENT. "NO SHOWS" ARE NOT COVERED BY INSURANCE.
​WE ARE A FRAGRANCE FREE OFFICE
Laurie Ghiz, LMHC, Dipl. Ac, (NCCAOM), LicAc
Back in Balance Acupuncture and Energy Medicine
354 West Boylston Street
Suite 224
West Boylston, MA 01583
508-769-0039 Fax: 888-350-9915
