ACUPUNCTURE FAQs in Springfield VA

Acupuncture is a 3,000 year old traditional Chinese medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate various physiological and therapeutic effects. The theory behind acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced "chee"), which is believed to be the vital energy or life force that flows through pathways in the body known as meridians.

Acupuncturists use these fine needles to manipulate the flow of Qi and balance the body's energy, aiming to restore or improve health. While the concept of Qi and meridians is central to traditional Chinese medicine, modern scientific explanations for the effects of acupuncture often focus on its impact on the nervous system and the release of natural painkillers in the body, such as endorphins.

Generally, patients feel no pain. What patients experience varies depending on the individuals and the points of insertion. While most patients feel a minimal sensation as the needles are inserted, some feel none. People may experience soreness, numbness, heaviness, and tightness locally or spreading along the meridian when the needle is manipulated.

Patients usually notice the benefits within the first 1-3 treatments. Acupuncture’s effectiveness typically builds upon each previous treatment. The number of treatments varies from one person to the next, depending on their particular condition. Acute problems may require only a few treatments, while more complex and chronic conditions may initially require one or two treatments a week, decreasing in frequency as conditions improve. Many choose to continue acupuncture on a less frequent basis for overall health, wellness, and relaxation. Others come back as needed when new health issues arise. We provide individualized treatment plans to suit your needs.

Acupuncture needles are made from stainless steel and are very fine. They are delivered in a factory sealed package and are sterilized before use. After use, the needles are disposed of into bio-hazard sharps containers. We never reuse needles.

Many insurance policies cover acupuncture. If you would like us to check your insurance coverage, you can contact us and we will be happy to check your acupuncture benefits for you. We are an out of network provider with all insurances. We have two options for dealing with billing.

Option 1: You pay our cash rate at the time of service ($95 per treatment) and we will be happy to provide you with a superbill for you to submit to your insurance carrier for reimbursement.

Option 2: You pay our insurance rate at the time of service ($130 per treatment) and we will bill your insurance carrier for you. With this option, you receive a check in the mail directly from your insurance company for reimbursement in 4-6 weeks.

We also work with Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA/PIP) and Workers Comp.

For a complete list of conditions we help with acupuncture, visit our conditions page here.

The number of sessions required varies depending on the individual, the condition being treated, and the treatment plan established by the chiropractor. Some people find relief after just a few sessions, while others may need ongoing care.

The cost of chiropractic care varies. At Thrive we are in-network with most commercial insurances as well as we accept auto-accident cases and workers compensation. Your personal commercial insurances decide your coverage, co-pay, co-insurance, etc. Our front desk will be more than happy to do insurance benefits check for you as well we have package and monthly subscriptions for cash options.

Acupuncture is used for various purposes, including pain management, stress reduction, and the treatment of a wide range of conditions, such as:

• Pain management: Acupuncture is frequently used to alleviate chronic pain conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, and headaches, including migraines.
• Stress and anxiety: Many people seek acupuncture to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation.
  Nausea and vomiting: It can be helpful in reducing nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy or pregnancy (morning sickness).
• Fertility and reproductive health: Some individuals turn to acupuncture to address fertility issues and support reproductive health.
• Allergies and respiratory conditions: Acupuncture may be used to relieve symptoms related to allergies, asthma, and sinus issues.
• Digestive problems: It can be employed to address issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and indigestion.
• Insomnia: Acupuncture is sometimes utilized to treat sleep disturbances and insomnia.

Yes! Acupuncture can be used as a complementary therapy for fertility, reproductive health, and those going through vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatments, egg retrieval as well as help with low sperm count, and/or hormonal imbalances. Here are some ways in which acupuncture may help with fertility:

• Stress Reduction: Acupuncture can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which is important because high stress levels can negatively impact fertility. Reducing stress may help some individuals improve their chances of conception.
• Hormone Regulation: Acupuncture may influence the regulation of hormones related to the menstrual cycle and ovulation. It can help balance hormonal activity, potentially improving fertility.
• Blood Flow: Acupuncture may enhance blood flow to the reproductive organs. Improved blood circulation can provide better nourishment to the ovaries and uterus, potentially supporting healthy egg production and implantation of the embryo.
• Ovulation: Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help regulate ovulation in women with irregular menstrual cycles.
• Side Effects: For individuals undergoing fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI), acupuncture may help reduce the side effects of these treatments and improve the chances of success.

Absolutely! Each of our acupuncturists are highly trained and skilled to listen to your needs. A lot of people might feel queasy at the thought or sight of needles. But it’s important to understand that acupuncture needles are much different from traditional medical needles. For instance, acupuncture needles are much thinner, in fact, you can fit 40 acupuncture needles into one hypodermic needle. Acupuncture needles are hair-thin, disposable and stainless steel, you may notice some sensation when they are being inserted but the sensation is not a painful one.

Acupuncture does not hurt. During treatment, many patients report a warming or tingling sensation that provides a general feeling of peace, comfort, and happiness. If you’re seeking relief from tightness or heaviness in your neck, shoulders, back or muscles, the release of this tension alone can result in tangible relief. After each acupuncture session, you can expect to feel lighter, calmer, and more connected with your body.