Dr. Naeem's Acupuncture

 What Is Chinese Medicine?

 Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM is a unique view of the world and the human body that is different from Western medical concepts. This view is based on the ancient Chinese perception of humans as microcosms of the larger, surrounding universe—interconnected with nature and subject to its forces. The human body is regarded as an organic entity in which the various organs, tissues, and other parts have distinct functions but are all interdependent. In this view, health and disease relate to balance of the functions.
The theoretical framework of TCM has a number of key components:
    •    Yin-yang theory—the concept of two opposing, yet complementary, forces that shape the world and all life—is central to TCM.
    •    In the TCM view, a vital energy or life force called qi circulates in the body through a system of pathways called meridians. Health is an ongoing process of maintaining balance and harmony in the circulation of qi.
    •    The TCM approach uses eight principles to analyze symptoms and categorize conditions: cold/heat, interior/exterior, excess/deficiency, and yin/yang (the chief principles). TCM also uses the theory of five elements—fire, earth, metal, water, and wood—to explain how the body works; these elements correspond to particular organs and tissues in the body.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

 Acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) to release chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals either change the experience of pain or release other chemicals, such as hormones, that influence the body's self-regulating systems. The biochemical changes may stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well being. There are three main mechanisms:
    1.    Conduction of electromagnetic signals: Western scientists have found evidence that acupuncture points are strategic conductors of electromagnetic signals. Stimulating points along these pathways through acupuncture enables electromagnetic signals to be relayed at a greater rate than under normal conditions. These signals may start the flow of pain-killing biochemicals, such as endorphins, and of immune system cells to specific sites in the body that are injured or vulnerable to disease.
    2.    Activation of opioid systems: Research has found that several types of opioids may be released into the central nervous system during acupuncture treatment, thereby reducing pain.
    3.    Changes in brain chemistry, sensation, and involuntary body functions: Studies have shown that acupuncture may alter brain chemistry by changing the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones in a good way. Acupuncture also has been documented to affect the parts of the central nervous system related to sensation and involuntary body functions, such as immune reactions and processes whereby a person's blood pressure, blood flow, and body temperature are regulated.

What Are Acupuncture Meridians?

Acupuncture Meridians are invisible energy pathways in your body that have been used therapeutically for over 5000 years. These meridians conduct life force energy, or Qi in and around all parts of the body. Any kind of interference or blockage in these pathways can result in energy imbalances that may contribute to negative health issues. The primary goal of acupuncture treatment is to restore your energy balance and proper energy flow to these meridians, Thus allowing your body to return to a normally functioning state.

Is Acupuncture Painful?

Due to the fact that acupuncture needles are hair-thin and are not hollow like a syringe, they cause very minimal, if any pain at all. Once needles are in place, patients have reported feeling very relaxed, a warm or cool sensation running throughout the body, a tingling sensation, energized, or sleepy. For health and safety, all needles used in our office are single use, pre-packaged, sterilized disposable needles.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Treatment, frequency and duration of treatment depends on multiple things, such as the extent and duration of the illness, pain, or injury and will be evaluated on an individual basis during the initial exam and consultation. No two patients are alike, but on an average, most patients will require treatment 1 to 2 times per week for a few weeks. Chronic problems may require follow up visits after the initial treatment period to keep symptoms away. Once you initiate a healing process, it is important to follow through on treatments. The more consistent you are, the better the likelihood of results. The effects of acupuncture tend to be cumulative. After you are feeling better, a few additional treatments may be recommended. In Chinese medicine, this is referred to as "solidifying the constitution." The goal is to further strengthen your body to prevent recurrence of the illness.

What Should I Expect And How Should I Prepare For My First Visit?

 Your initial visit will include a full patient intake and medical history as well as your first acupuncture treatment.
Please allow at least 45 minutes for the first visit. Regular visits will be approximately 30 minutes.

*Please bring a list of current medications you are taking, including any prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins.

* Please bring any lab or medical reports relevant to your condition.

* Eat a light meal a few hours prior to your visit.

* Avoid alcohol on the day of your treatment

* Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Acupuncture points are located all over the body. Many of the acupuncture points that are commonly used are located between the wrists and elbows and the ankles and knees. You will be more comfortable if your clothing can be easily rolled up to your elbows and knees. 

What to Expect After Treatment

Your relief may be immediate, delayed for a few hours, or even develop after one to three days. The relief may last for a few hours on the first visit and then last longer with each successive treatment, or relief may last from the first treatment until your next visit. Individual response to treatment varies.

Insurance

If you have insurance that covers acupuncture, you will be provided with an insurance-compatible Superbill. A Superbill is an invoice for your visit that uses standarized codes for all treatments performed. This process requires the patient to pay the full cost of the treatment out -of-pocket at the time of the visit.
The Superbill can thereafter be submitted to your insurance carrier for full or partial reimbursement depending on your policy.

Acupuncture is considered a Tax-Deductible Medical Expense by the IRS.

You can also use a Health Savings Account to pay for Acupuncture Treatments

Can I Afford Treatment?

Dr. Naeem believes that no one's health should have to suffer because of their financial circumstances.

We give Senior Discounts as well as Long Term Treatment Discounts for those with chronic issues