Q: What is Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation?

A: Also known as physiatry or PM&R, physical medicine and rehabilitation is a medical specialty that focuses on improving function and quality of life to those with physical impairments affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves, spinal cord, and brain. PM&R physicians are medical doctors who have completed training in the specialty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation after completing medical school.

Q: What is Medical Acupuncture?

A: Acupuncture treatment performed by a qualified physician is called medical acupuncture. This type of physician is trained in both modern medicine and acupuncture, giving them a comprehensive view of the problem and ability to offer customized treatment options tailored to the patient.

Q: What is acupuncture?

A: Acupuncture is a healing practice in traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This technique has been used for thousands of years to treat numerous conditions and is believed to help restore balance to the body and promote natural healing. It is recognized to be especially helpful in relieving joint/muscle pain and can reduce reliance on pain medications. Other benefits of acupuncture include its ability to reduce stress/anxiety, improve sleep, improve energy levels, and promote an overall sense of well-being. It is considered to be a safe and effective treatment option with very few, if any, side effects.

Q: What is dry needling?

A: Dry needling is a treatment that involves the insertion of fine needles into tight, painful spots in muscles called trigger points. The technique used in dry needling differs from acupuncture in that a needle is inserted into a trigger point repeatedly from different angles until the muscle relaxes. There may be residual soreness after the treatment that generally resolves after 1-2 days. Dry needling to deactivate muscle trigger points can help to relax the muscles and promote healing.

Q: What is cupping?

A: Cupping is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the use of cups to create suction on the skin. The cups are traditionally made of glass, bamboo, or ceramic with suction created by burning a material inside the cup before being placed on the skin. Modern usage involves plastic cups with a suction pump to create a vacuum inside the cup. The suction is believed to help stimulate blood flow and promote healing. During a cupping treatment, the cups are typically placed on specific points on the body and left in place for several minutes or moved around, depending on the condition being treated. Cupping is generally considered to be a safe and effective treatment, although it can cause some temporary discomfort or bruising.

Q: What is the benefit of combining acupuncture with physical medicine and rehabilitation?

A: A key benefit of combining acupuncture with physical medicine and rehabilitation is that it allows for a more holistic approach to pain management. Rather than simply focusing on reducing pain symptoms, acupuncture and physiatry work together to address the underlying causes of pain and promote overall health and wellness. This approach can help individuals achieve long-term relief from their pain and improve their quality of life.

Q: Does acupuncture hurt?

A: Most people find acupuncture to be a relaxing and comfortable experience. Sometimes people may feel a slight pinch or prick when the needles are inserted, but the procedure is generally not painful. Some people may experience a sensation of warmth, tingling, or dull ache around the needle, which is known as the “de qi” sensation and is believed to be a sign that the acupuncture treatment is working.

Q: How many acupuncture treatments are needed?

A: The number of acupuncture sessions needed to treat a particular problem varies depending on many factors, including the nature and severity of the problem, the overall health of the individual, and their response to treatment. Some people experience relief after just 1 or 2 sessions, while others may need more treatments to achieve their desired results. On average, 5-8 sessions are needed to achieve lasting improvement. It's important to note that acupuncture is just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes exercise and lifestyle modifications, which also help to maintain lasting relief.

Q: How should I prepare for a home visit?

A: Be sure to fill out the intake form emailed to you when you booked your appointment.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing.

Secure pets in a separate room.

Prepare any questions or concerns that you would like to discuss.

If possible, identify a 4x6 ft space where a treatment table may be set up.

Q: What precautions should I take after an acupuncture treatment?

A: To allow for the full therapeutic effect of acupuncture, it is best to avoid any strenuous physical activity (including sexual activity), heavy meals, and alcohol for 6 hours after the treatment. Some temporary effects after an acupuncture treatment may include disorientation, lightheadedness, relaxation, a sense of euphoria, and a temporary decreased interest in details. It is important to allow yourself to rest fully before driving if you feel lightheaded or disoriented.