The Top 7 Questions to ask your Acupuncturist
1) Is your Acupuncturist Licensed?
The first thing you want to ask an acupuncturist is "Are you Licensed?"The State of North Carolina designates the term LAc to indicate Licensure. Ask to see credentials. NC guidelines for Acupuncture requires the following:
1) Graduation from a three year postgraduate acupuncture college, accredited by or in candidacy status by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) or its successor organization.
Jung Tao (in North Carolina) is a 2000 hour program.
Accredited programs can be found at http://www.acaom.org/accprgs.asp
2) Submit evidence of successful completion of the Clean Needle Technique (CNT) course
3) Proof of passing extensive NCCAOM Board examinations in four areas; Foundations of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture, Biomedicine and Point Location
LAc stands for Licensed Acupuncturist.
The above guidelines apply to the Licensed Acupuncturist in NC. Other professions that are allowed to practice in NC may have much less specialized training in Acupuncture. There are some other designations with as much specialized training in acupuncture, but some of these educations may only be found outside the United States.
2) Does it hurt?
Acupuncture needles are solid, not hollow (as are syringes). Thus, they are largely painless. Many acupuncture needles are as small as several hairs, tightly bound. Most patients feel a pinch as the needle is inserted. When the proper technique is used, the acupuncturist elicits a response signalling the proper effect has been reached.
Some clients feel very little, while others experience a heavy, cold, or even hot sensation. Several clients profess to feel "movement" or a feeling that transfers to other body areas. These are not classical "nerve" responses, but a direct response to the fields of energy affected by Acupuncture.
3) What is the difference between Medical vs Licensed Acupuncture?
State Licenses vary. Yet most MD's and Chiropractors are able to qualify to perform Acupuncture with as little as 200 hours. Most non-medical Acupuncturists that become licensed in North Carolina aquire nearly 2000 hours, or almost 10 X as much Specialized training.
To make an analogy:
1) 200 hours is equivalent to five 40-hour work weeks.
2) Acupuncture is a seperate system of Medicine.
3) While a medical background is an excellent foundation, and a requirement for MD's, it is not a substitute for specialized training in a seperate system of medicine.
4) With only 200 hours of training, a Medical acupuncturist may have only 1/10th the training
in Acupuncture as an LAc (Licensed Acupuncturist)
5) If you were just begin to learn painting, could you expect to become Leonardo Davinci in just 5 weeks?
4) Does my Acupuncturist Accept Insurance?
Most Insurance companies do not cover acupuncture. Some Health networks offer discounts to in-network Acupuncturists.
Consider the following:
1) Massage Therapy, now widespread, was once not considered under most Insurance policies.
2) Similar to Massage, Acupuncture is now gaining acceptance in the Medical community. Just look at
the number of "Integrative" clinics arriving in NC.
3) Acupuncture is an excellent preventative and integrative form of care.
Regular treatments promote overall health, as well as working to meet numerous health care needs.
4) So, consider including Acupuncture in your holistic approach to health.
Your approach may include:
Acupuncture
Regular checkups
Eye exams
Dental exams and cleanings
Annual OB/GYN exams
Health care memberships
Participation in sports, Tai chi or Yoga
Dietary counseling
Now, ask yourself - "Are all of these covered by Insurance?"
5) How does Acupuncture integrate with my overall healthcare and maintenance?
Acupuncture is safe for almost any condition, and does not interfere with medications. Acupuncture is an excellent adjunct therapy for treatments from your MD, Chiropractor, PT, Massage therapist, and other healthcare professionals. A Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc) should be able to express information to your Doctor or other Medical professional (with your permission) on a professional level, in Medical terms, to insure the best possible treatment.
6) Are the needles sterile?
Yes! Your acupuncturist should use single-use disposable needles. Furthermore, the LAc is required to complete a "clean needle technique" course to insure the highest safety standards.
7) How often should I see my Acupuncturist?
Your Acupuncturist should not insist upon a set number of treatments. Instead, they should customize your treatment schedule to meet your specific needs. It is important to set realistic expectations. Depending on your needs, multiple treatments may be suggested. Remember the following points:
1) Chronic conditions may require more treatments
2) Effects are often subtle, effecting other systems and symptoms. Your Acupuncturist will suggest what to look for, as your needs are being met.
3) Unlike surgery or medication, you may not notice immediate result in the area of your chief complaint. Sometimes a foundation may need repair before the house becomes stable.
Acupuncture is a safe, effective method of treatment for a variety of wellness needs. o Insight Wellness strives to provide our patients with the finest, professional acupuncture and Massage Therapy services available. 
Tom Cohen is a North Carolina licensed acupuncturist, and graduate of Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine.
Hours (By Appointment Only)
Massage Services as Offered by Tom Cohen, LAc, LMBT
We train in Daitoryu Aikijujutsu, Aikido and Tai chi for Health.