How does acupuncture work?
There are several ways of answering this question. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture works by stimulating acupuncture points that are located on specific energetic meridians that increase the circulation of "Qi" and blood throughout the body. A great deal of research has been done in recent years to understand how acupuncture works according to Western biomedicine and physiology. This research has shown that acupuncture releases pain-relieving opoids into the central nervous system, increases blood flow to affected or injured areas and releases endorphins and neurotransmitters into the endocrine and nervous systems.

Are there any side effects to acupuncture treatment?
One of the best things about using acupuncture as a form of treatment is that you will not suffer from any side effects. Occasionally, patients may experience some fatigue immediately following the treatment, however this is just temporary, and ultimately our patient's energy levels gradually improve with treatment.

Does acupuncture hurt?
Most patients do not experience pain with acupuncture. There is often a sensation that varies from patient to patient when the acupuncture needle is inserted. Some patients state that they do not feel anything, while others say that it feels like a mosquito bite. After the needle has been inserted and is in the correct location a general ache or feeling of pressure at the point is very common.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
Yes! Most insurance companies in Oregon cover acupuncture. Each insurance company is different and each policy is different. Unfortunately, Medicare and OHP do not cover acupuncture treatment. Since insurance can be tricky, please feel free to contact our office to have our staff verify your insurance benefits for you. We are contracted with several private insurance companies and bill Worker's Compensation and Auto Insurance companies as well. If you would like to be treated under your auto or work injury claim, we will need a prescription from your primary physician. Please contact our office for details on this procedure.

 

"Acupuncture!! No way!! All those needles!! was what I said. I now smile because I have found since receiving acupuncture treatment for more than four years, that I could not function without it! Acupuncture has been a godsend for me and my family! We have been very grateful. Many kudos to the Mountain View Acupuncture staff for your professionalism and commitment. It has been a pleasure not only being your patient but having your friendship as well. Thank you!"
Deb (age 57)
"If you had told me two years ago that I would be sharing the benefits of acupuncture with others, I would have asked you what planet you were from. I was what some people would refer to as a 'Doubting Thomas' when it came to non-traditional medicine. That was before I was referred to Marjon at Mountain View Acupuncture by the neurosurgeon who was about to operate on my neck. He felt that acupuncture would help me with the neck and back pain I had been dealing with for several years. At the time I agreed to give acupuncture a try, I held out very little hope that it would help. Over the years, I had tried different forms of physical therapy, massage therapy and many other 'traditional' treatments without any real improvement. However, after just a few appointments with Marjon, I could tell the difference in my pain levels, sleep, energy level, and overall mood. I have continued to receive regular acupuncture treatments not only for my neck and back pain, but also for my allergies, on a regular basis and have seen tremendous results. I have become a true believer in the many benefits of acupuncture."
Ginny (age 48)