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 often do clients 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?
Currently, Annie works with Veterans through the Community Care Program, Regence BCBS, Pacific Source (NOT medicare or OHP) and Providence (NOT medicare). Superbills are available to submit to out-of-network insurances.
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?
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. Her hands are her main tools and she will use them to palpate areas like your spine, abdomen, upper chest, arms, legs and feet. Annie will explain and assure your comfort with everything, 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 craniosacral therapy, 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 most comfortable, truest and happiest self, and that is different for everyone.
What is Qi (pronounced Chee)?
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.etc. 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!