This section answers some of the questions that Ruth is asked from time to time. Please feel free to send an email at the address listed on the contact page with any other questions.
1. What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture was started in China about two thousand years ago as a method of treating health problems by inserting fine needles into the body at certain points. These points are specific to particular symptoms and illnesses and their locations have recently been confirmed via electromagnetic research.
2. Do the needles hurt?
Acupuncture needles are about the width of a hair, making the insertion light and usually painless. If there is any discomfort, it dissipates in the first few seconds after they are inserted. Most people feel absolutely nothing upon insertion besides a slight tingling sensation.
3. How do I know acupuncture is safe?
The needles are all sterile and used only once. Needles are never re-used and are discarded according to state mandated bio-hazard disposal regulations. Practitioners are trained specifically to know exactly where the needles should be inserted to ensure maximum safety and well-being of their patients.
Please see the Appointments page for Ruth’s COVID-19 Safety Practices.
4. How long do I have to go?
The treatment course depends on a few variables: what is being treated, how long the person has had the problem, how strong their constitution is and what kind of treatment is given. Essentially, the longer someone has had something, the longer it will take to be treated. It is suggested that people start with 10 visits, discuss with Ruth how they are doing at that point and adjust the treatment plan accordingly. It is recommended that people continue receiving treatments once their initial complaint is resolved to ensure longterm wellness.
5. What are some of the conditions that Ruth treats?
Infertility and problems during pregnancy, depression and anxiety, pain, nervous system and muscular disorders, sprains and strains, digestive tract disorders, ear nose and throat complaints and addictive behavior.
6. Is there anything I need to do before coming in for an acupuncture treatment?
Come to the visit having recently eaten and wear loose clothing. Avoid exercise 2 hours before and after getting a treatment.
7. What is Chinese herbal medicine good for?
It can treat all diseases and in particular acute diseases like flu, chronic problems such as gynecological diseases (including infertility), autoimmune diseases and allergies as well as dissipate pain and discomfort after traumas.
8. Can I still take herbs even if I'm taking a prescription drug?
Ruth is trained not only in the complete usage and properties of herbs but also in any possible interactions with western medications and supplements. Speak to her about what medications you are on and that will be taken into consideration when prescribing herbal medicine, possibly with a modification of any formula that you would be given.
9. Do Chinese herbal formulae have any side effects?
When Chinese herbs are prescribed in accordance to the person's diagnosis, there should be few to no side effects. Some people, however, have sensitivities to certain herbs, giving them particular side effects from there formula. If you experience any side effects after taking the prescription, stop taking the formula immediately and let Ruth know.
10. Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
Acupuncture is a part of many insurance companies' plans; when making an appointment with Ruth, you can give her your insurance information and she can check what the details are around coverage. She is an in-network provider for many companies so you may just need to pay a copay when you come in for treatment.