How Does Acupuncture Work?
Relying on the insertion of fine and sterile needles into a patient's skin, acupuncture stimulates specific anatomic sites within the body, commonly known as acupoints. Often combined with treatments such as moxibustion, applications of topical herb medicines, and manual massage, its basic philosophy is to get the body's energy in alignment, usually referred to as getting one's ying and yang balanced. Once certain bodily systems such as nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine, and others are stimulated through the treatment, the body's natural healing response can begin.
What Occurs During a Treatment Session?
When you visit Wilke Chiropractic, Dr. Melissa Wilke will get your information about your health history, you will lay down on a comfortable treatment table. Upon doing so, needles begin to be placed within various sites on your body corresponding with your particular health needs. While the needles are being placed, you will feel little if any discomfort during the 10-30 minutes the needles are retained, during which time most patients report feeling very relaxed.
How Many Treatments are Needed?
This is hard to answer since the treatment needs of patients vary. In general, complex and long-standing chronic conditions require one or two treatments per week for several months. If you have acute problems or other special needs, an individualized treatment plan will be developed for you by Dr. Wilke during your first visit.
What Conditions Can be Treated with Acupuncture?
As for conditions commonly treated via acupuncture, this can run the gamut from allergies, headaches, and depression to neck and back pain, arthritis, and tennis elbow. In some cases, acupuncture is even used to help induce labor in pregnant women.
How Much Do Treatments Cost?
Surprisingly to many people, acupuncture treatments are actually quite affordable. On average, patients where insurance does not cover acupuncture pay an affordable amount that varies according to circumstances.
If you would like to learn more about acupuncture and our other services, contact us (630) 723-8983 as soon as possible for a consultation.
