Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years.
Proposed theories include suppressing inflammatory responses, improving blood flow, and relaxing muscles.
Inconsistency among clinical research about the exact therapeutic mechanisms and efficacy of acupuncture treatment requires further research.
Dean Mitchell / Getty Images
verify to ask your healthcare provider if acupuncture is a safe option for you to try.
Your acupuncturist will use alcohol swabs to disinfect the skin before placing needles in various points throughout your body.
Because of this, needle insertion is often painless, especially in thicker areas of the body.
Your acupuncturist will then leave the needles in place for 20 to 30 minutes while you relax.
Sometimes a heat lamp is placed over you during treatment.
After your treatment is finished, your acupuncturist will remove all of the needles and dispose of them.
Acupuncture visits are typically performed once or twice per week.
Cost and Insurance
Costs for acupuncture can vary from $75 to $200 per session.
Your first session, which involves an initial assessment and evaluation, may cost more than your follow-up visits.
Medicare currently covers acupuncture services up to 12 visits within a 90-day period for chronic low back pain only.
Acupuncture for any other condition will not be covered by Medicare.
Arthritis Foundation.Acupuncture for arthritis.
2013 Mar 30. doi:10.1155/2013/581203
Medicare.gov.Acupuncture.
