Q. Does acupuncture hurt?

A. For most people acupuncture does not hurt. Some report feeling a sensation similar to a mosquito bite during the needle insertion, if at all. Some sensation is experienced if the needles are manipulated after insertion. The most common descriptions of this sensation are 'pressure', 'movement', or 'electricity'. The sensation of Qi at the acupuncture point is how the medicine works. You do want to feel some sensation, but you do not want the sensation to be so strong that it gets in the way of you relaxing. If you ever feel any discomfort you can always let us know and we can make more comfortable adjustments.

Q. How long will it take me to get better?

A. This is a very difficult question to answer because it depends upon so many factors. Every person is unique, every condition is unique, every response is unique. What is the cause of the condition? How long has the condition been an issue? Are there other health issues complicating the condition? Are there any lifestyle factors complicating the condition? All of these must be considered when developing a treatment plan. We do always aim be as precise and effective as possible, and most people leave feeling better than when they walked in.

Q. How long is each treatment?

A. Treatments generally take about an hour. In most cases we try to retain the needles for atleast 30 minutes, although this is also dependant on the condition and constitution of the individual.

Q. What do I wear?

A. Please wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. Usually we just need access from the elbows and knees down. What you would wear to work out or relax around the house is perfect for a treatment. Articles such as jeans or long-sleeved shirts limit access to points as well as limit your range of motion.

Q. Do I have to undress for treatment?

A. No. Most treatments are performed with the patient fully clothed. Acupuncture, cupping, and gua sha on the back do require the removal clothing. Removal of clothing is entirely up to you and your comfort level. If you do get work done on your back, you will be draped properly and should not be exposed at any time.

Q. Is acupuncture covered by my medical insurance?

A. More and more insurance companies are including acupuncture on their plans. Common Root does not take insurance but we do offer Community Acupuncture hours which provide acupuncture at rates that are close to many co-pays anyway. Please refer to our Community Acupuncture page for more information. If you do have a plan that covers acupuncture, we can print out a Superbill for you at the time of your treatment that you can submit directly to your insurance company. Please call your insurance provider to discuss their policies, and your coverage.

Q. Can I make an appointment for my child?

A. Yes. Traditional Chinese Medicine is suitable for any age; 2 weeks of age to 99+ years. Acupressure and herbs are commonly used on young children or individuals that are afraid of needles.

Q. Can I take herbal medicine with my regular medication?

A. When herbal medicine is administered by a licensed Chinese Herbologist (CH) drug/herb interaction is always considered. When making a custom herbal formula, we can tailor it according to your current pharmaceutical regimen.

Q. What can be treated with acupuncture?

A. The World Heath Organization recognizes over 40 conditions that can be treated with acupuncture. Acupuncture is also used as a preventative medicine. If you are interested in seeing examples of acupuncture’s benefits as related to your personal condition, a simple keyword search on the internet can be very helpful. If you type in your condition and 'acupuncture' you will often find related research and personal blogs with people giving accounts of their experiences You are also welcome to call or e-mail Common Root with your questions.

Q. Do I need to bring anything with me to my appointment?

A. You do not need to bring anything with you other than your body. If you are currently taking medications, it is helpful to write those down along with the dose that you are taking. If you have a few days between now and your appointment, it is often helpful to record your daily food intake and any symptoms that you experience in relation to your condition.