+ What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest medical systems in the world, originating in China over 2000 years ago. Acupuncture influences the qi, or bioelectricity within our bodies, which flows along pathways from our head to our feet. According to Traditional Chinese medical theory, pain and illness is caused when this natural flow of qi is blocked. Blockages result from a variety of factors including diet, lack of exercise, emotions, trauma, toxins or weather. Fine, sterile needles are inserted in the body along energetic pathways called meridians to clear the blockage and restore smooth flow of energy. The goal is to restore your normal flow of energy, bringing the body back into balance. Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and World Health Organization (WHO) as a safe, natural and drug-free way to address a wide range of health concerns.

+ Why should I try acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a safe, natural, drug-free and effective form of medicine. It is based on the premise that the body has an enormous capacity for self-healing. At Balanced Health Acupuncture we are dedicated to nurturing that ability within every individual patient. At Balanced Health Acupuncture we look at the whole person, gathering a complete health picture to determine a unique treatment plan for each patient that addresses your immediate symptoms AND the root cause of those symptoms while also strengthening your body to prevent future problems. Each person is unique, and your health concerns are viewed as such. No two people are alike therefore your healthcare should be tailored to your unique needs. There is no cookie-cutter approach to your care at Balanced Health Acupuncture. Because acupuncture is a holistic form of healing, it is not uncommon that in the process of addressing your main complaint, you will soon see improvements in all areas of your life. For example, as your back pain lessens, you may also notice that you are sleeping more soundly, have increased energy, improved digestion, less headaches and less stress and anxiety. I would not recommend acupuncture to someone who is truly not interested in the medicine or to someone who is looking for a one treatment quick fix for a chronic problem.

+ What does acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture is used to treat a wide variety of conditions, both alone and in combination with Western medicine. While it is best known in this country for treating painful conditions such as migraine headaches, arthritis, and back pain, it is also effective for many other acute and chronic conditions including respiratory (e.g., sinusitis, allergies, asthma), reproductive (e.g., painful or irregular menstruation, premenstrual syndrome, menopause), digestive (e.g., constipation, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome), emotional (e.g. stress, anxiety, depression), and many other conditions. You can check out my Conditions Treated page to learn more or take my free quiz to see if acupuncture can help treat your current condition.

+ Is acupuncture safe?

Yes, when administered by a licensed practitioner who has been educated by an accredited college of acupuncture and Oriental medicine, acupuncture is one of the safest forms of medicine. All needles used are sterile, single-use disposable needles.

+ Does acupuncture hurt?

No. Patients who have received shots or other medical injections from hypodermic needles are sometimes fearful that acupuncture treatments will be painful. Whereas, hypodermic needles are stiff, hollow and thick for forcing liquid into or pulling it out of the body, acupuncture needles are fine and flexible, no bigger than a human hair or piece of thread. Most acupuncture patients are surprised to discover that when inserted, the needles produce little or no sensation and treatments are usually quite relaxing. Some patients even fall asleep during treatment. Snoring is always welcome!

+ What can I expect during my first appointment?

During your first visit we will review your reason for seeking treatment and your goals for treatment. The majority of the time will be spent discussing your current health condition and your health history so that an accurate diagnosis can be made. Physical examination will include taking your pulse, viewing your tongue and possibly palpating specific acupuncture points or meridians. After the examination you receive a personalized acupuncture treatment. Patients relax with the needles anywhere from 25-40 minutes. During the first appointment and future appointments, you are encouraged to ask any questions that you may have about acupuncture or your treatment.

+ How many treatments will I need?

Individualized treatment plans are developed for each patient based on the presenting symptoms. Frequency of treatments depends on several factors including the complexity of your illness, how long you have had symptoms and the state of your overall health. Healing is a process. Each acupuncture treatment builds upon the previous treatment’s progress. Those with an acute condition can typically expect to see changes within 4-6 treatments while those with a chronic condition may take closer to 10 treatments to see changes. After your symptoms have resolved, many patients continue to receive treatments once a month or seasonally because they enjoy the relaxation and stress relief provided and to ensure their health is maintained. The goal is to remind your body what it means to be in balance so that it can return to a state of health, free of pain, unwanted symptoms and side effects.

+ Do you offer community acupuncture?

All of my patients say that they really value the one-to-one treatment time with me which gives us ample time to discuss whatever is bringing them into the office that day. Community acupuncture is a different model that I do not utilize because it doesn't give me that space and time to give the individual focus that I pride myself on and that patients value.

+ What is balanced health?

At Balanced Health Acupuncture we recognize that health is influenced by a variety of factors: physical, emotional, social, and environmental. Feeling and staying healthy means seeking balance in our lives, homes and within ourselves. Balanced health means having a balanced body, free from aches and pains. Balanced health means having a balanced mind, free from overwhelming stress and emotions. Balanced health also means having balanced energy and eating a balanced diet so that your body is adequately nourished to maintain optimum health and well-being. At Balanced Health Acupuncture, our treatments focus on balancing your body and balancing your mind to bring about balanced health.

+ What are your hours and rates?

Office hours are Tuesdays 8:00-3:00, Wednesdays 9:00-5:00 and Thursdays 8:00-3:00. Initial, first time patient visits are $125 (or $120 with cash discount) and follow up appointments are $85 (or $80 with cash discount) due at the time of treatment.

+ How do I book an appointment?

The quickest and easiest way to book an appointment is to use my online scheduler. You can also call or email me directly to book.

+ Where are you located?

My office is located in Cornelius, NC, convenient to 115 and 77 for those in the neighboring towns of Davidson, Huntersville and Mooresville.

+ Do you take insurance or health savings/flex spending accounts?

I do not bill insurance directly but if your insurance provider covers acupuncture treatments then I will help you with your claim form and give you a receipt that you can submit to be reimbursed directly. You should be able to use your health savings or flexible spending account for acupuncture but please check your plan/account for details.