General 2 — Atlas Acupuncture

General Information

You have questions, we have answers.

Our mission is to provide integrative medicine with the intention of keeping you informed and healthy. Here at Atlas Acupuncture, we understand that acupuncture is still an emerging medicine in our culture. We are happy to answer any questions you have about our medicine, how it works, and what it can treat. We want all of our patients to be well advised and to feel safe. Below are a few of the most commonly asked questions. If you have more questions or would like a free consultation, feel free to call or email us.

FAQs

Does it hurt?

No. Needles are hair thin and filiform – not hollow like hypodermic needles from hospitals or doctor’s offices. After insertion of these needles in specific points on the body a heavy, dull sensation may be felt or even no sensation at all. Every now and then a brief pinch or twinge can occur. We will absolutely use your feedback to determine an appropriate treatment plan based on your specific level of comfort.

Is it safe?

Yes, acupuncture is very safe when practiced by a licensed acupuncturist. Each needle is pre-packaged, sterile stainless steel, and used only one time to ensure a safe and hygienic environment. Extremely thin, filiform needles are used along with clean needling technique (CNT). When practiced with expertise and safely, acupuncture does not have any serious side effects. Acupuncture is suitable for almost everyone, including children and elders.

How should I prepare for treatment?

Please dress in loose, comfortable clothing so that sleeves and pants can be rolled up to above the elbows and knees. We also provide sheets and blankets for patients who may need to undress.

Also, please eat something beforehand—even if it is just a light snack. Acupuncture can be sedative on an empty stomach.

What should I expect at my first treatment?

On your first visit, we will review your complete health history. An initial treatment is 90 minutes long, with each follow-up appointment lasting 60 minutes. After a full evaluation of your health, we will discuss a treatment plan. This plan will outline recommendations for acupuncture, herbs, diet, and lifestyle that will help you achieve your health goals.

Please bring any medical tests that you have done recently in addition to a list of your medications and supplements. For fertility patients, a basal body temperature chart and hormone blood panels are very helpful in determining your course of treatment.

To help us serve you most efficiently, please arrive 5-10 minutes before your first appointment to fill out your intake forms. Feel free to download the forms at the bottom of this page ahead of time if you wish to arrive with the paperwork completed. This will leave us with ample time for your first consultation and treatment.

What is the payment policy?

Payment is due at the time of service and can be given in the form of a credit card, check, or cash. For insurance, I am an out-of-network provider which means I do NOT bill your insurance directly. I can provide you with a receipt for you to submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.

How many treatments will I need?

It depends on your condition. The more stubborn and chronic the condition is, the longer the treatments may continue. Initially, 4 to 6 weekly treatments are recommended to see lasting results. More acute conditions or injuries tend to resolve faster. If you are looking for general well-being and preventative care, seasonal or monthly treatments are ideal.

Do you take any COVID-19 precautions?

Yes. Masks are optional. If you choose to wear one, your provider will wear one as well. We have extra masks onsite for you if you need one. We will follow strict CDC guidelines for sanitizing and proper airflow in a healthcare setting. There are HEPA filters in each room for air purification.

Please DO NOT book an appointment if:

-You have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 10 days.

-You have any of the following symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has: fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, unexplained muscle/body aches, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, vomiting, or diarrhea.

This is a home office so we appreciate your understanding and respect regarding our COVID-19 precautions. Thank you!

What type of training does an acupuncturist receive?

Acupuncture takes many years of practice and study to master. To be a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.) & herbalist at a minimum you must complete a 4-year – 3,200-hour graduate-level Master of Science program (or 3-year accelerated program), spend hundreds of hours in clinical internships, be certified by the CCAOM in Clean Needle Technique, and pass the stringent NCCAOM national board exams. Additionally, students can pursue a doctorate in Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine. The graduate studies for acupuncturists are quite rigorous with regard to safety. In school, we are taught extensive gross human anatomy along with the exact angle, depth, and direction a needle should be placed in each of the hundreds of points all over the body.

Physical therapists, chiropractors, and naturopaths— “Western” medical practitioners— are permitted by Vermont state law to practice acupuncture, which is also referred to as “dry needling,” with zero hours of training. Often, they opt to take a weekend seminar course. Dry needling has been outlawed by many states including New York and California as a public safety concern. Even medical doctors (M.D.s) in Vermont are required to do a more comprehensive 300-hour acupuncture training. We would strongly recommend seeking acupuncture from only licensed acupuncturists (look for the credentials “L.Ac.” after the practitioner’s name).

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