Traditional Chinese Medicine is one of the oldest systems of health care, developed and refined over the course of 4,000 years. Therapies such as acupuncture and herbal medicine have stood the test of time and still serve as comprehensive, primary medical care in the Far East where they are seamlessly integrated with modern medical therapies. Over the past 40 years, acupuncture has become increasingly popular in the West for the treatment of everything from pain to digestive disorders, menstrual issues and menopausal symptoms to general stress management.

Acupuncturists use extremely fine, sterile, and disposable needles to stimulate specific acupuncture points on the body based on the particular problem or imbalance. Typically they are left in place for 20-30 minutes. The effects are sometimes immediately noticeable but typically a series of treatments is required to achieve the desired results. However, most people report feeling deeply relaxed and “balanced” even after a single treatment. Because the holistic medical approach focuses on treating the whole person rather than isolated symptoms, it is ideally suited to help promote and maintain health. Almost everyone comes to their first acupuncture session to treat a specific problem but many continue with periodic “maintenance” treatments because they report having more energy, sleep better, catch fewer colds, and generally just feel better overall. Investing in your health while you are healthy is the best way to stay healthy. If you already have health issues, Chinese medicine offers virtually side-effect free treatment possibilities that can complement conventional therapies and may help you improve your health far beyond the symptoms that are bothering you.

Investing in your health while you are healthy is the best way to stay healthy. If you already have health issues, Chinese medicine offers virtually side-effect free treatment possibilities that can complement conventional therapies and may help you improve your health far beyond the symptoms that are bothering you. Please consult a physician before starting any acupuncture routine.

WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?

Will acupuncture help my condition?

Although an acupuncture treatment plan can be designed for nearly any condition, treatment success may depend on one’s willingness to make lifestyle changes like diet modification and exercise. Because of the individual nature of disease and the many factors involved in healing, this question is best addressed after a thorough understanding of your health concerns and a comprehensive review of your medical history. Please contact Dr. Crimmel at (717) 219-3621 for an initial consultation to discuss how acupuncture might help your condition.

Are the needles safe? Do they hurt?

Acupuncture needles are sterile, used only once and then discarded. The needles are extremely fine and many people report feeling little to no sensation at all when they are inserted. Even people who are more sensitive typically experience no more than a brief sensation upon insertion. Once the needles are in place most people experience a deep state of relaxation during the course of the treatment.

How quickly will I see improvement?

While some people may experience substantial results almost immediately, you should plan to commit to six to eight sessions before you can fairly assess the cumulative effects of treatment. As a rule of thumb, acute conditions respond more quickly than chronic illness. Long-standing disease is often the result of years of slow, unhealthy changes in the body. Treatment is an attempt to reverse these processes and restore balance. A lasting, natural recovery can take some time and commitment.

How should I prepare for my first treatment?

Have a small meal or snack an hour or so before your appointment. Avoid caffeine. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be easily adjusted to expose the affected area, e.g. shoulder, low back, etc. if applicable. Bring a list of medications and supplements and any pertinent medical information such as dates of surgeries, hospitalizations, etc. The most common side-effect of acupuncture is a deep state of relaxation and sense of wellbeing. It is advisable to plan on taking it easy after your treatment and try to avoid strenuous mental or physical activity.

What are the fees for acupuncture?

A 90min initial consultation and treatment is $135.

A one-hour treatment session is $90.

Do you accept insurance?

We do not accept insurance for acupuncture at this time. However, some insurance providers are beginning to reimburse for such services. We will provide an invoice to clients who wish to submit to their insurance companies for reimbursement.

BENEFITS:

Citing nearly 300 controlled clinical trials, the World Health Organization stated that acupuncture has demonstrated efficacy in treating:

• Pain (neck, low back, sciatica, knee, headaches, arthritis, post-operative)
• Digestive disorders (peptic ulcer, gastritis, nausea and vomiting)
• Respiratory disorders (allergies)
• Ob/Gyn disorders (painful menstruation, morning sickness, induction of labor)
• Cardiovascular (essential and primary hypertension)
• Psychiatric disorders (depression)

Further study was recommended for 63 other conditions for which acupuncture appeared to have a therapeutic effect including:Acne, substance dependence, asthma, infertility, fibromyalgia, PMS, insomnia, TMJ, and many others.