Two Roots Acupuncture, Leadville + Buena Vista, CO
 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What does acupuncture treat?

Because the goal of acupuncture is to promote and restore both the balance of physical function and emotional well-being, the benefits of acupuncture can extend to a wide variety of conditions, from emotional disorders (anxiety, depression), to digestive complaints (nausea, vomiting, irritable bowel syndrome). It is beneficial for pain syndromes due to an injury or associated with chronic degenerative diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be helpful in treating neurological problems like migraines or radiating nerve pain, or as a rehabilitation strategy for individuals who suffered a stroke. Respiratory conditions, including sinusitis, asthma, and allergies can be relieved with acupuncture, as well as the common cold. Gynecologic disorders (including PMS, infertility, perimenopause/menopause) can be improved with acupuncture and it is also beneficial for reducing fatigue, addictions, and for strengthening the immune system and promoting overall well-being.

Here is a list of common ailments acupuncture is used for:

infertility
immuno-deficiency
anxiety
insomnia
depression
stress relief
fatigue
IBS
smoking cessation
weight reduction
allergies

back & neck pain
fibromyalgia
headaches
migraines
TMJ
carpal tunnel
tennis elbow
sports injuries
PMS
pregnancy support
perimenopause/menopause

...and much more

Not sure if acupuncture can help you? Give us a call today and we can discuss your unique situation and goals for healing »

is acupuncture painful?

Acupuncture is not painful, that being said, there is a sensation associated with the needling. We typically put these sensations in two categories:

  1. “Odd” These responses feel heavy, dull, aching, or perhaps throbbing. This is all well, good, and normal.

  2. “Intense” These reactions feel like energy travelling, buzzing, or electricity. These are also all well, good, and normal.

Both are a sign the needles are working, and that the body is reacting in a productive way. If you feel a sharp sensation longer than a few moments after the insertion of the needle, let us know and we can adjust the needle which usually resolves it or replace the needle altogether. If you don’t feel any of these sensations that is fine. It doesn’t mean it’s not working. It just means you’re not sensitized to that information.

The bottom line is that as long as the feelings around the needled areas don't keep you from relaxing, we say let them be.

how will i feel after treatment?

Our patients tend to feel relaxed, calm, and energized. You may feel tired or drowsy for a few hours if the experience is particularly strong. You may also experience a short-term flair-up of symptoms as part of the healing process.

It follows that resting is always a good option. The body heals when it rests. Also, after acupuncture, our bodies tend to feel more sensitive, and it is best to avoid extremes of indulgence, temperature, and activity, for a few hours after.

We also recommend drinking lots of water afterwards and the next day. The needling can have a detox effect and being properly hydrated will help to flush out the toxins.

How many treatments will i need?

Acupuncture treats you, as a whole, unique person in the context of your own individual environment. Therefore, the frequency and number of treatments can differ from person to person. Some people experience dramatic relief in the first treatment. For complex or long-standing chronic conditions, one to two treatments per week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required. An individualized treatment plan that includes the expected number of treatments will be discussed during your initial visit.

Our goal is to assist in bringing your body back into balance so that you feel optimally as quickly as possible, and you can go about your life. Regular monthly visits may be suggested as preventive measures to decrease stress, improve energy or boost immunity.

What will happen on my first visit?

For your initial consultation, we need to assess your general health. You will be asked about your current symptoms and any treatment you've received so far. It is also important to gather detailed information about your medical history and that of your family, your diet, digestive system, sleeping patterns and emotional state. The purpose is to identify what needs to be addressed in order to target your specific complaint, and to boost your overall vitality.

Stimulation of specific areas affects the functioning of various organs. However, those areas may not be close to the part of the body where you are experiencing a problem. For example, if you suffer from headaches, needles may be inserted into your foot or hand. There are over 365 specific acupuncture points on the body, and an unlimited number of non-specific points. We will use a small selection of these for each session. Often during the course of a few sessions, different points will be selected as the patient's condition changes.

do i have to receive acupuncture to be treated?

Absolutely not. Needles are just one way Acupuncturists communicate with the body. Other techniques, such as acupressure, Tui Na (Chinese medical massage), and non-insertive needling are particularly suitable for small children or for people with a fear of needles.

Additionally, the body can be treated entirely through herbal medicine. Be sure to ask us for a recommended herbal formula if you prefer not to be needled or if you are unable to come regularly enough to obtain desired results. Herbal medicine is a great stand-alone treatment or an incredible supplement to your acupuncture therapy.

What conditions can be treated with traditional east asian herbal medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine treats the full range of human disease. From acute illness like flu and the common cold or acute trauma and pain syndromes, to chronic disease such as: allergies, gynecological disorders, autoimmune diseases, chronic viral diseases, and degenerative diseases due to aging. Herbal medicine can also help to maintain or create balance and health before disease sets in.

Do you accept health insurance?

We do not accept insurance at this time, however, you are always welcome to use your HSA or FSA account to pay for treatment.