Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete system of medicine that has been in existence for more than 3,000 years. It has its own system of diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and therapies that work to restore and balance the body. These therapies include, acupuncture, Chinese herbal formulas, moxibustion, heat therapy, cupping, lifestyle and diet modifications.

 

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Yes. Acupuncture is used by millions of Americans every year. Licensed acupuncturists in Texas are required to undergo extensive education ( a minimum of a four year masters degree) covering biomedicine, acupuncture, herbal medicine and the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). 

The acupuncturists at Magenta Acupuncture have passed comprehensive national board examinations administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and are licensed by the Texas Medical Board. 

We use pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles to ensure your complete safety.

 

What Can Acupuncture Treat?

Acupuncture works by activating the body's own healing powers, so it can be beneficial for many health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented many symptoms, diseases, and conditions that have been shown in controlled clinical trials to be effectively treated with acupuncture. 

Below are some common conditions that can be treated, but please feel free to contact us about your specific health condition.

 

Musculoskeletal Pain

  • Fibromyalgia/ Chronic Fatigue and Pain
  • Sports injuries/Repetitive strain injuries
  • Muscle pain
  • Joint pain/ Arthritis
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Tennis Elbow
  • Jaw pain (TMJ)
  • Sciatica
  • Tendonitis
  • Headaches and Migraines
  • Postoperative pain

 

Digestive Issues & Nausea

  • Heartburn, Acid Reflux
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Chronic indigestion
  • Chronic loose stools or constipation
  • Gas and bloating
  • Acute and chronic gastritis
  • Morning sickness
  • Nausea and vomiting

 

Psychological and Emotional Wellbeing

  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Fibromyalgia / Chronic Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Addiction 

 

Respiratory/ Ear, Nose and Throat

  • Sinusitis
  • Allergies
  • Ear congestion
  • Post nasal drip/ chronic sore throat
  • Asthma
  • Shortness of breath

 

Hormonal/ Endocrine Imbalance

  • Adrenal Fatigue
  • Menopause
  • Thyroid 

 

What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?

Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will feel like hypodermic injections at the doctor’s office. No worries, they won't. 

Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that you will hardly feel when inserted by your acupuncturist. When gently stimulated, the needles may produce a mild sensation. Patients often describe this as a heavy, spreading, or traveling feeling. Most patients find these acupuncture sensations deeply satisfying and leave the treatment feeling very relaxed both mentally and physically.

 

What Can I Expect My First Visit?

Prior to your first appointment, we will email you the new patient paperwork to fill out and bring with you to your initial appointment. The acupuncture intake form asks questions about your current state of health, past illnesses, and family history. These questions are important because the holistic approach of Oriental medicine takes everything into account. Your current symptoms may not seem related to past health issues, but our bodies are complex landscapes and everything that happens to them leaves its mark. It is always our goal to understand any contributing factors that may have lead to your current condition so that we can treat the root cause. 

After reviewing your intake form, we will discuss your condition, and your acupuncturist will examine your pulse and tongue, which are two of the basic diagnostic methods of Oriental medicine. The acupuncture points chosen will depend on your condition. Once the needles are inserted, your acupuncturist will leave you to lie comfortably for 20-30 minutes with the needles in place. Most patients tell us they reach a very deep state of relaxation that feels like the best “power nap” ever. 

Following the treatment we will provide you with a treatment plan that is tailored specifically to your health needs. This will include a suggested number of treatments, lifestyle and dietary suggestions, meditations and other recommended tools you can implement at home to enhance your healing process.

 

Is there anything I need to do before my treatments?

Here are a few reminders :

  • Prior to your free consultation/ initial treatment you want to fill out your new patient paperwork and bring it with you to your appointment.
  • Please eat something light prior to your treatment. 
  • It is helpful if you wear loose clothing or bring a pair of shorts to you appointments. 
  • Your initial appointment will last between 60-90 minutes and follow up treatments will be 60 minutes.