Ladan Nabet Bodies in Resonance

Acupuncture FAQs

Several thousand years ago, East Asian practitioners observed that the body forms disharmonies as a result of external causes as well as our body's response to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual stresses of life. The classical description of this system of medicine describes pathways in the body that facilitate the complex exchange of information of our many body procceses. Blockages in these pathways act like dams in a vital river. Excesses and deficiencies affect the flow as well. Until smooth flow is restored, the health of this river and its tributaries will be compromised. Acupuncture, from this perspective, restores balance and the smooth flow to the body so that all of its structures can function optimally. 

Modern science has identified that stimulating acupuncture points activates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. The American Academy of Medical Acupuncturists explains that "these chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being."

What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?

Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will feel like injections at the doctor’s office. They won't. Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that some patients report feeling and others do not. When stimulated,  the needles may produce a unique sensation we call de qi. Patients often describe de qi as a gentle, achy pressure, or an easy spreading feeling. 

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more then one treatment is necessary. The number of treatments needed varies from person to person and depends on your health concern, its severity, and how long you've had the issue. Acute problems typically respond to care in fewer visits (2-6 sessions), while complex or long-standing conditions shift over a longer term of treatment. For long-standing conditions I typically recommend weekly sessions for 4-6 weeks to get a sense of how your body responds to the work and then decreasing the frequency of sessions after that. 

Preventative treatments and treatments for optimizing wellbeing may also be scheduled on an as-needed basis but are often not covered by insurance carriers as being "medically necessary". 

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Yes. Acupuncture is used by millions of Americans every year. Acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education for 3 to 4 years, including detailed study of human anatomy and physiology, training in Clean Needle Technique, OSHA laws and HIPPAA compliance. Ladan is certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and is licensed by the state of Maryland. As required by law, pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles are used to ensure your complete safety.