What can TCM/acupuncture treat?
Any issue, you name it, Annie can help! Most commonly treated are any kind of pain-acute or chronic, adrenal fatigue, digestive disorders, migraines, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, depression, fertility, all gynecological issues, immune disorders, frequent colds, post-stroke recovery, high blood pressure, diabetes and even just plain old stress-which can actually be the main cause of some of these other issues. If you are having an acute issue, like a cold, recent bodily injury or recent surgery, the sooner you come in for treatment the sooner you will no longer be dealing with that issue!
How many treatments will I need?
Each person is different, each life it’s own journey. Depending on how long you have been dealing with any issue will often give an idea of how long treatment will take. The longer you have had it, more treatments may be required to unwind it. Often, positive results are seen after the very first treatment and lasting effects after a few treatments. Annie’s goal is to get you back up and thriving as soon as possible. Prevention is key! Developing and maintaining healthy habits will greatly complement the therapies used. Through treatment you will learn new ways of doing many daily things, such as new ways of moving, breath techniques and ways to help yourself at home during a flare-up.
How often do I come in?
Each person has a different treatment plan. The best and quickest results are seen when treatments are done close together in the beginning. It is usually recommended as twice per week for 1-4 weeks, then weekly. Once symptoms are controlled, treatment may occur twice/month, monthly or as needed.
Does insurance cover it?
In Oregon, insurance companies often do cover acupuncture. Currently, Annie works with Veterans through the Community Care Program, Pacific Source (NOT medicare or OHP) and Providence. She is willing to submit toward your out-of-network deductible when paying out of pocket, with payment due at time of service. Covered services include acupuncture and some massage techniques such as cupping and gua sha. Herbal prescriptions are not covered. Please call your insurance company to check on your personal plan’s acupuncture coverage. Annie will bill insurance as a service to you, however that does not guarantee coverage and you are responsible for any unpaid service.
What should I expect during my first treatment?
Annie’s goal is to have you feeling your best and thriving!
Usually, a first treatment takes one to two hours and usually includes the intake and a treatment. Together, you will go through a detailed discussion of your body, your life, your pains and pleasures, your diet, your preferences, your job, your relationships, etc. Annie wants to understand YOU and how you move through the world. She will look at your tongue and feel your pulse, as this gives her information about what is going on deep inside your organs and body. Her hands are her main tools and she will use them to palpate areas like your spine, abdomen, upper chest, arms, legs and feet. Together you will decide the right course of treatment and proceed from there. Annie will explain and assure your comfort with everything you do together, whether it be acupuncture, a dietary or herbal plan, cupping, gua sha, moxa, breath work, or qi moving techniques (often referred to as Qi Gong). Some personal touches that are non-TCM originating that Annie adds in are aroma therapy, intuitive counseling & yoga therapy. Annie will send you off with some new thoughts and habits to incorporate into your life. The intention is to balance your mind, body and spirit, and to guide you to finding your truest and happiest self, and that is different for everyone.
What is qi?
You know that sigh of relief you find yourself doing after stressful moments? Or the jolt from a caffeine buzz? That is your qi! Qi is a subtle energetic flow through the body. Qi also is present all around us, and is what transforms and guides all natural occurrences in our universe. Think about a boiling pot of water with steam rising up. Qi is that seamless transformation from water to gas. Qi is natural and inherent in all things.
Stress, life events, overwork, traumas, improper eating (among others) all cause qi to stagnate, or to stop moving smoothly, which can then lead to a multitude of problems like pain, depression, anxiety etc. So keep taking those deep breaths, and then take some more!