Acupuncture Center of Acadiana

Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning. This is done by inserting needles at very precise acupuncture points.

Acupuncture is one of eight methods used in traditional Chinese medicine and is anchored in the principal of Yin/Yang. Yin/Yang describes the eternal dance of opposing, but interconnected forces; such as matter and energy, body and mind, or between the tangible and the intangible. When in harmony the two opposing and interconnected forces produce Qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital force which flows through all life. When Qi is abundant, it brings strength, balance and health. In practice, Yin/Yang can be thought of as a way to view and organize relative states of hypo or hyper-function within a living system.

Through precise needle stimulation of interconnecting “Acu-points” within the body’s energetic web, or meridian system, a return to homeostatic balance is facilitated. Simply put, Acupuncture is the art and practice of correcting states of imbalance, as they pertain to dysfunction and disease. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural self regulating abilities and promotes physical and emotional well-being.

The classical Chinese explanation is that energetic channels run in predictable web-like patters through the body and over its surface. Qi is circulated through these channels, sometimes called meridians, which flow like rivers through the body irrigating and nourishing the tissues and organs. An obstruction in circulation of qi in the meridian system is like a dam that backs up the flow in one part of the body and restricts it in others, which can lead to the development of excess (Shi) and deficient (Xu) patterns. These “patterns of disharmony” affect tissue and organ function locally in the short term, but if not corrected will eventually have an adverse systemic effect.

The meridians, and thus, patterns of disharmony can be influenced through acu-point stimulation. The acupuncture needles unblock obstructions at the dams, reestablishing the free flow of Qi in the meridians. Acupuncture treatments can regulate these imbalances, resulting in improved tissue and organ function, relief of pain, and a return to health.

One challenge facing a more accurate biomedical understanding of the underlying mechanisms of acupuncture is the assumption of dependence on a single therapeutic effect. Clinically the advanced practitioner knows that there are many ways to influence the body through acu-point needle stimulation. Ironically the most often quoted “analgesia through endorphin release” is relatively short lived and of minor importance. Increased anti-inflammatory and immune response, improved circulation, musculoskeletal alignment and balance through motor point and motor nerve stimulation, autonomic regulation and deep relaxation effects are of much greater clinical value.

Yes. In the past 2,000 years, more people have been successfully treated with acupuncture than with all other health modalities combined. Today acupuncture is practiced widely, not only in Asia, but around the world. It is now being used more and more in America by patients and physicians. Acupuncture treatments can be given at the same time other techniques are being used, such as conventional Western medicine,osteopathic or chiropractic adjustments, and homeopathic or naturopathic prescriptions. It is important that your acupuncturist know everything that you are doing, so he or she can help you get the most benefit from all your treatments.

Acupuncture is a system which can influence three areas of health care:

• Prevention of illness.
• Treatment of various medical conditions.
• Promotion of health and well-being.

While acupuncture is often associated with pain control, in the hands of a well-trained practitioner it has much broader applications. Acupuncture can be effective as a stand alone therapy or simply as an adjunct to other medical treatments. The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of medical problems, including:

• Psyco-emotional disorders: anxiety, depression, addiction, ADD, etc.
• Neurological and orthopedic conditions: sciatica, muscle and joint pain, migraine headaches, fibromyalgia, disc and spinal pathologies, neuropathies, autoimmune disorders
• Digestive disorders: gastritis and hyperacidity, spastic colon, constipation, diarrhea, IBS
• Respiratory disorders: sinusitis, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, recurrent chest infections
• Hormonal regulation
• Urinary, menstrual, and reproductive problems.

Acupuncture is particularly useful in resolving physical problems related to tension and stress and emotional conditions.

Treatments at the Acupuncture Center begin with a medical history and discussion of current complaints, followed by examination and treatment. Prognosis, as well as suggested methods and frequency of treatment may also be discussed at this time.  Cupping, herbal formulas, massage, laser therapy, postural analysis, and exercise instruction are some methods that my be used in addition to acupuncture during a session. While some first-time patients may exhibit some apprehension to the process, it is usually short lived as the patient realizes the safe and gentle nature of acupuncture therapy. A patient typically feels relief within the first few treatments and commonly finds the time spent in the treatment both relaxing and deeply restorative

The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions, one or two treatments a week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health maintenance, monthly or quarterly visit may be all that is necessary.

Usually not. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination patterns, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass within a short time, and never require anything more than a bit of rest to overcome.

People experience acupuncture needling differently. Most patients feel only minimal sensation as the needles are inserted; some might feel a jolt, others feel no sensation at all. Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid and are made from stainless steel. The point is smooth (not hollow with cutting edges like a hypodermic needle) and insertion through the skin is not as painful as injections or blood sampling. The risk of bruising and skin irritation is much less than when using a hollow needle. Because your acupuncturist uses only disposable needles, there is no risk of infection from the treatments.

Once the needles are in place, most patients either fall asleep, or experience a deep state of relaxation.

To enhance the value of a treatment, the following guidelines are important:

• Do not eat an unusually large meal immediately before or after your treatment.
• Do not over-exercise, engage in sexual activity, or consume alcoholic beverages within 6 hours before or after the treatment.
• Plan your activities so that after the treatment you can get some rest, or at least not have to be working at top performance. This is especially important for the first few visits.
• Continue to take any prescription medicines as directed by your regular doctor. Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) especially in the week prior to treatment, may interfere with the effectiveness of acupuncture treatments.
• Remember to keep good mental or written notes of what your response is to the treatment. This is important for your doctor to know so that the follow-up treatments can be designed to best help you and your problem.

We are a proud service provider for VA Community Care and are an HSA accepted therapy.

In Louisiana, health coverage plans in the large group market are required to provide coverage for acupuncture performed by licensed acupuncturists when medically necessary and not otherwise excluded. What this means, is if you are on a group policy of 50 or more, your insurance company is legally required to give you some reimbursement for Acupuncture treatments deemed “medically necessary”. Some other insurance companies currently cover acupuncture costs, other companies do not yet recognize the value of acupuncture. Each health policy must be reviewed to determine acupuncture benefits. More and more insurance companies are recognizing the value of providing coverage for medical acupuncture services. You can help by insisting that your insurance company offer you reimbursement for medically indicated acupuncture treatments before you accept their policy.