All About Acupuncture

Acupuncture, a medical practice based on principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) developed over 4,000 years ago, is just one of the many services offered at The Springs, Western New York’s only mineral springs spa, which is operated by Rochester Regional Health. 

Acupuncture treatment involves inserting thin, sterile, disposable needles into neurovascular nodes on the body – commonly known as acupuncture points. The needles are minimally invasive, which means patients usually don’t feel them, and they stimulate the immune system to increase circulation, reduce pain & inflammation, and healing. Below are some commonly asked questions about acupuncture services. 

How do I know acupuncture is right for me?

Acupuncture is used to treat a variety of ailments. Many patients are treated for pain management related to illness, injury or autoimmune disease, but acupuncture is also helpful for:

• Hypertension
• Lyme disease
• Menopausal concerns
• Allergies and sinus issues
• Morning sickness
• Smoking cessation
• PMS
• Weight loss
• Cosmetic facial rejuvenation
• Supporting patients undergoing cancer treatment to relieve pain or alleviate side effects of chemotherapy and radiation

Does acupuncture hurt?

After acupuncture treatment, many patients describe a feeling of calmness and serenity when the needles are inserted. Others describe a dull, heavy, achy sensation (this is known as ‘da qi’), a sensation that is expected. One may also feel heat or itching near the needle.

At no time should a person feel pain or stinging, although auricular acupuncture can occasionally elicit a brief pinch. Quite often, patients take a brief nap while receiving treatment.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

In some cases. Every insurance policy has specific guidelines regarding what conditions may be covered and the number of visits allowed per calendar year. Contact the customer service number on your insurance card for more information about these details, as it varies from plan to plan.

Acupuncture options at Rochester Regional Health

The Springs Spa at Clifton Springs Hospital and Clinic offers several options for acupuncture treatment, including:

Private sessions

• Extensive consultation and treatment utilizing the full scope of Traditional Chinese Medicine, including acupuncture
• Complete medical history discussion to aid in lifestyle, dietary and herbal counseling
• Diagnosis based on observation, palpation, and listening
• Treatment is provided in a private room, usually on a massage table

Community style acupuncture

• Consultation is brief and will focus primarily on relief of specific symptoms
• Single symptom-focused sessions
• Typically, all needles are placed in the extremities, so clients should be dressed in comfortable, loose fitted clothing
• All treatments are received in a reclining seat or massage chair

Facial renewal acupuncture

• Initial acupuncture consultation required
• Stimulates the face and helps to tone and tighten the skin while improving complexion
• For the most noticeable results, an initial series of 10 sessions weekly, followed by maintenance sessions every 4-6 weeks, is recommended 

For more, visit The Springs.