FAQ

FAQ

You have questions and we are here to answer them.
Here is a list of our most commonly asked acupuncture questions about .

History

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine which involves the insertion of fine needles into a person’s skin at specific points of the body. This is to manipulate the flow of energy—also called Qi and pronounced as “Chi”. Acupuncture began in China almost seven thousand years ago and still widely used today as an accepted form of conservative treatment.

Is Dr. Lisa (Yuehui Li) Zhou licensed?

Yes, Dr. Lisa (Yuehui Li) Zhou is a licensed acupuncturist in the state of New York and has two MDs in China for both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine.

Is acupuncture the only treatment performed?

Acupuncture is our main treatment but we offer a variety of treatments.  We work with you to find the right treatment option for you and your problem.  Prices for other treatments may vary depending on the complexity of problem and the amount of problems being treated.  This is discussed with you before beginning any treatment.

Before Treatment

How should I prepare?

Here are some of the ways you can prepare for your first acupuncture visit.

  • Patients should arrive at our office at least ten minutes before their first treatment to fill out a brief patient history form.
  • Please make sure to bring your insurance card and ID to your first appointment. We cannot verify your insurance plan without this information.
  • Patients should eat and drink water before receiving acupuncture to minimize complications (dizziness, fatigue, etc.).  You may also bring water and a small snack to the office if you are unable to eat beforehand.
  • Comfortable and breathable clothing with easily removable footwear should be worn, if possible.
  • Diagnostic imaging and tests are always welcome but are not necessary to be seen.  A list of current medications and supplements is also helpful to have with you.

How long does the treatment take?

  • First treatment: The first treatment could last anywhere from thirty minutes to two hours due to paperwork, the body examination and complexity of treatment.  However, the average first treatment will last a little over an hour.
  • Subsequent treatments:  Thirty minutes to one and a half hours with most treatments lasting forty-five minutes to an hour.

Please notify the staff beforehand if your appointment is during a lunch period or you need to leave at a certain time.

How many treatments are needed?

The treatment process is different for everyone, so it is difficult to give an exact amount of treatments needed. The body examination can determine an average amount of treatments needed, but is not considered an exact amount. At Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine and Rehab Center, we strive to be as efficient as possible while still providing the best care for your treatment. We will also work with you to find the duration of care that is right for you.

What should I expect from my first visit?

  • When you first arrive, we will ask you to fill out a brief patient history and check your insurance coverage.
  • After a short description of our procedure, we will begin the consultation where Dr. Lisa (Yuehui Li) Zhou, L.Ac and MD (China) will answer all of your questions and concerns while examining any diagnostic imaging, tests or other medical history you provide us.
  • She will then perform a non-invasive traditional Chinese body examination where she will be able to diagnose your problem and determine which points are needed for your specific treatment.  The procedure will be explained beforehand is you are unsure of this process.
  • Finally, Dr. Lisa will discuss the findings of your examination with you and the acupuncture treatment will begin.  We can also setup a schedule for future treatments at this time if you are busy, you would like to think it over or discuss it with your family.

What happens after the treatment?

The majority of people can continue on with their day as normal (return to work/school, perform errands or perform light to moderate physical activities). It is recommended not to perform heavy lifting or strenuous physical activities for at least a few hours after treatment, especially when coming in for pain or an injury.

Acupuncture Treatment and Safety

Does it work?

While no doctor will ever guarantee 100% recovery, acupuncture is an effective in treating thousands of different problems.  Dr. Lisa has practice acupuncture for over forty years and strives to give you the best and most efficient treatment possible.

Is it safe?

Acupuncture is a safe and holistic form of medicine that works with the body to get to the root of your problem.

  • Dr. Lisa is a licensed acupuncturist in the state of New York, and as such, adheres to the strict standards set by law when performing acupuncture.
  • As per New York State law, we only use disposable needles and would never reuse needles.
  • After use, all needles are placed into sterile waste disposal bins located in each room and are properly disposed of per guidelines.
  • Every patient is designated their own private room with rooms being cleaned after each patient.
  • All of this is to ensure the health, safety and privacy of all our patients and to eliminate the spread of illness.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture as a whole should not hurt. However, since injuries and sensitivity to pain vary, some patients might feel a mild pinch/shock when the needle is inserted.  Some patients might also feel a mild sensation, soreness, discomfort or fatigue a few hours to a day after treatment. This indicates a change in the body and not a cause for concern.

Please inform your primary care physician and contact our office immediately if you experience a drastic change/worsening of symptoms during or after your treatment.

What are the needles like?

The acupuncture needles used in our office are fine needles of varying lengths, sizes and types—mainly straight needles from 1” up to 4” needles.  Other special needles, such as for auricular acupuncture, are also used in our office.  Depending on the results of the body examination, we will not only diagnose but locate the specific points in which to place the needles.  Feel free to ask about the needles used before your treatment.

Should I stop other treatments or medications while having acupuncture?

This is not needed nor recommended.  Traditional Chinese medicine treatments, including the herbal medicine used in our office, does not cause adverse side effects or complications with western medicine. We work with your current treatments and are happy to work with your doctors. Always speak with your primary care physician first before stopping any form of treatment or medication.

Insurance & Payment

Does insurance cover acupuncture?

We currently accept the following insurance companies. Most major companies offer some benefit for acupuncture (copay, discount, flex card).  Even so, you should contact your insurance company before scheduling your appointment to find your specific acupuncture benefits.  Feel free to contact our office anytime during normal business hours if you need help in determining your benefits.

Do I need a referral?

Most insurance policies do not require a referral for acupuncture.  Our staff will be happy to check coverage and determine if a referral is needed.  Call our office anytime during normal business hours with any questions.

Which forms of payment are accepted?

  • Cash
  • Check
  • All major credit cards
  • Debit cards with logo
  • HSA & Flex Spending

Where can I schedule and appointment?

Anytime by calling our office at 716-803-8899

Contact us anytime with any questions.