Frequently Asked Questions - Policies

What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) developed over 3,000 years ago in China. According to TCM, health is achieved by maintaining the body in a “balanced state”. Disease is due to an internal imbalance that leads to blockage in the flow of qi (chee). Our bodies have numerous channels that are much like rivers or streams called meridians (channels). The flow of qi, blood, and fluids should be smooth throughout these meridians but many things can hinder this free-flow causing it to become blocked or deficient (imagine a dam in a river). There are hundreds of acupuncture points that can be opened like gates to balance and harmonize the flow of energy, relieve pain, boost the immune system, and treat many other symptoms of disease.

What does acupuncture treat?
In 1997, the National Institutes of Health evaluated scientific and medical data surrounding acupuncture and now recognizes the advantages of Chinese medicine’s holistic approach, safety record, and virtual lack of side effects. Aches and pains, stress, anxiety, allergies, asthma, cancer treatment side effects, fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, headaches and migraines, gynecological disorders, immune dysfunction, reproductive and urogenital disorders, Insomnia, joint and musculo-skeletal disorders. For more information see the National Institutes of Health: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/

Does it hurt?
During the insertion of the needles, patients feel a slight prick to the skin, followed by sensations that have been described as heaviness, warmth or tingling at the site of the needle, or throughout the body.

How many acupuncture visits will I need?
The number of visits is determined on an individual basis. Just as pain or illness takes time to develop, restoring balance takes time. In general, acupuncture is most effective over a course of treatments. We take into consideration your age, how long you have had the problem, how severe it is (acute or chronic), your overall health, stress level and your motivation.

Can I benefit from acupuncture if I am healthy?
Acupuncture is about prevention and maintaining health. Seasonal treatments are recommended four-times per year. This keeps the body balanced, helps fight off colds and flu, and prevents bigger health issues from ever arising.

What to expect?
On your initial visit you will fill out some basic paperwork, including a health history form. These forms can be accessed and downloaded on this website (see forms below), if possible, bring completed forms with you. Next, we’ll review the paperwork and you will be asked additional questions relating to your health concerns and a treatment plan will be established. Then you’ll settle in, removing your shoes and socks, and rolling up your sleeves and pant legs. The acupuncturist may feel your pulse or check your tongue for additional diagnostic information and will then swab rubbing alcohol onto the points that will be treated. Next, ultra-thin needles (all needles are sterile stainless steel, single-use and disposable) will be inserted at varying points, mostly from the knees to the toes, and from the elbows to the fingers. Finally, you will rest peacefully for 30 to 40 minutes. Most people fall asleep. After your treatment we will review the treatment plan for your condition, and discuss any questions that you have.

Forms
Please download the following forms for your first visit:
Intake Form: Health History – download

Before Your Treatment
•  Arrive a few minutes early to check in and relax
•  Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be pulled up above the knees and elbows
•  Make sure to eat 1 to 2 hours before your appointment, avoiding coffee, alcohol, sugar and greasy foods

Pricing
Community Acupuncture (click here for more info on community): $50 per treatment, plus $20 on first visit for paperwork and interview. Allow 60-75 minutes for first visit and follow-up allow 45-60 minutes for treatments.
Private Acupuncture (click here for more info on private): $90 per treatment, plus $25 on first visit for paperwork and interview. Allow 60-90 minutes for first visit and follow-up allow 60 minutes for treatments.
*If time is an issue please let acupuncturist know at beginning of appointment.

Payment Methods
Payments may be made by cash or credit card.

Cancellation Policy
We reserve the right to charge full price fee for appointments that are not cancelled within 24 hours of the scheduled time. Patients who do not call to cancel and do not show up will be charged in full.

Do we take Insurance?
If your insurance company provides coverage for acupuncture treatment, we can provide you with a receipt (superbill) of payment for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Location
Taking the L: 2 blocks from the Brown line; Damen, or Montrose stop. Metra: 2 blocks from the Metra station; Ravenswood and Lawrence Ave. Sangha Community Acupuncture is walking distance of Lincoln Square, North Center, Andersonville, and Lakeview neighborhoods. Street Parking is available.