Dr. Anita Chen Marshall, DAOM, Pharm D, PhD, L.Ac. Traditional Chinese Medicine for Acupuncture and  Herbs. Alameda, CA.  510-523-1072

FAQ

What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a Chinese medicine treatment technique that treats patients by insertion of very fine needles, not much thicker than a human hair, into specific acupuncture points on the body surface. This helps influence the physiological functions of the body by moving the stagnation and bring more oxygen and nutrient to the damaged tissues and organs. The needles used are sterile, individually packed for single use only.

Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes. Acupuncture is used by millions of people around the world every year. Acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education, including detailed study of human anatomy and training in Clean Needle Technique. I have passed comprehensive board examinations administered by the state if California as well as the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). As required by law, I use pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles to ensure your safety.

What does acupuncture treatment feel like?
The acupuncture needles are very fine hair like sterile needles, much smaller than the needles used for injections of drugs or to draw blood. The sensation varies with the practitioner, needles used, style of treatment and how you are feeling that particular day. Caffeine will enhance the needle sensation; therefore, it’s best to avoid having any caffeinated beverages before coming for an acupuncture treatment.

Upon first needle insertion you may feel an initial ‘mosquito bite’ like sensation or you may not feel much of anything at all. Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needles. This is called the “Qi sensation.” This may be followed by other unique sensations such as heavy, spreading, warm, tingling or electrical. Sometimes a tingling or energetic sensation is felt in other areas of the body as well. All these reactions are a good sign that the treatment is working.

What to expect during and after treatment?
You can choose a variety of nice soothing music to be played softly during your treatment. The needles are usually retained for 30 minutes, although some patients many request a shorter or longer treatment time. My patients often feel completely relaxed and may even fall sleep during treatments. The experience is often described afterwards as relaxing yet energizing with a greater sense of focus. One patient coined it a “power nap”.

After treatment, you may feel energized or may experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being Please refrain from overexertion, heavy workout, drugs or alcohol for up to 6 hours after the visit. It’s best to avoid stressful situations, make time to relax, and get plenty of rest; as it takes a lot of energy to move the stagnant and/or blocked Qi.

In rare occasions, your symptoms may get worse for a few hours to a day before they get better the next day. This is due to the stagnation within the channels is being moved by the treatment and the pain sensation may be enhanced. Once the stagnation is moved through the channel, energy will flow smoothly again and the pain will subside. The acupuncture treatment also promotes qi and blood circulation to bring more oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissues to promote healing process.

Between visits, take notes of any changes that may have occurred, such as the alleviation of pain, pain moving to other areas, or changes in the frequency, duration and intensity of the problem being treated. These are indications of your healing process and we can evaluate your progress accordingly.

Do you have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
No, acupuncture is a procedure anyone can benefit from without having an understanding of how it works or even believing in the process or Qi. As the matter of fact, acupuncture is very effective in treating animal disorders without placebo effects.

How many needles do you usually use?
The number of needles and location used varied from case to case. I usually use between 6 to 20 sterile needles of varying size and length, between about 1/4 inches and 2 inches or 50 mm. Most of the acupuncture points used are below the elbows and below the knees. The needles are disposed in a sharp container after each use, then sent away to be incinerated. Therefore, there is no chance of cross contamination from needle insertion.

How should I prepare for the treatment?
Wear loose clothing so that it is easier to access points, or you many change into a treatment gown for more comfort. Since it is not good to do acupuncture when you are hungry and tired, make sure you have a moderate breakfast or lunch before you come for your treatment. However, make sure to avoid eating a full meal right before treatment. Try to allow enough time for the treatment so you are not stressed from rushing around going places.

It's best to avoid any caffeinated beverage before acupuncture treatments, as it may increase the needle sensation during insertion of the needles.

Will I receive herbal medicine after a treatment and what does it taste like?
Depending on the condition, a customized Chinese Herbal Formula may be prescribed based on the tongue and pulse diagnosis of the patient. The herbal formula may change from visit to visit as the patient’s condition improves or changes. The taste varies depending on the content of the formula. In general, tonifying herbs are slightly sweet and may be better tolerated; however, the heat clearing herbs are usually more bitter, and honey can be added to cut the bitterness. Some patients may even grow to like the taste as they sensed it is good for the body. Sequoia Healing Center has a well stocked herbal pharmacy. The herbal extracts are supplied by herbal companies with high GMP standards.

What about parking?
My home office is next to Sunshine Day Care Center. Please turn onto the long narrow drive way next to the day care parking lot, go all the way toward the basketball hoop and park next to the fence. 

How long is a treatment?
The first treatment usually takes about 1 1/2 hour. You will have a complete intake evaluation, Chinese tongue and pulse diagnosis based on the principles of Chinese medicine. You will then be recommended to receive treatment using one or more modalities based on the differential diagnosis. Treatment plans will be tailored to your individual needs. You will rest for 30 minutes after the needles are inserted, although some patient may request shorter or longer periods of time. This is your time to relax and meditate. Follow up treatments typically run about 1 hour.

How frequently should I come for treatment?
The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more than one treatment is necessary and varies with each patient. For acute conditions, the treatments work the best with 3 times per week schedule for 3 weeks for acute conditions, then decrease to twice a week for 2 weeks, then down to once a week, then decrease to once every 2 weeks and then once a month for maintenance. You will usually begin to feel relief after just the first 2 to 3 treatments. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond, depending on the type, severity, and duration of the condition. Acupuncture is also beneficial for stress reduction, preventative care and for general well-being.

How much does it cost?
Cost varies with what services are being used and will be discussed prior to treatment.

How do I pay?
I accept cash and personal checks. Payment is expected in full following each treatment.

Can I use my Health Savings Account (Flex Spending Account) funds to pay for treatments?
Yes, I will provide you with a super bill to submit to your HSA following each treatment. The cost of herbs may or may not be covered depending on your individual account. You can use your Health Savings card for ease of making your payment.

Does health insurance cover acupuncture treatment?
It depends on the individual health insurance plan. Some do and some don’t. Please contact your health insurance provider to see if they cover acupuncture as an ‘out of network’ service under your policy. I will provide a super bill for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement of your treatment.