How Does Acupuncture Work?

Acupuncture works by improving the body’s functions in order to promote the natural self-healing process. This is done by stimulating specific anatomic sites, commonly referred to as acupuncture points. The most common method used to stimulate these points is the insertion of fine, sterile, needles into the skin. Pressure, heat, or electrical stimulation may also be used to further enhance the effects.

How Safe is Acupuncture?

At North Tampa Spine & Joint Center, all acupuncture treatments are performed using single use, disposable, filiform needles. The needles arrive pre-wrapped and sterilized, and they are opened just prior to insertion. Because of this safety practice, risk of infection is extremely low. Acupuncture has relatively few side effects, but a patient may occasionally experience mild bleeding, bruising or soreness near the insertion points.

Does Insurance Cover Acupuncture?

More and more insurance companies are realizing the benefits of acupuncture and are now covering the procedure. Remember every insurance company is different and each company offers many different plans. Some plans cover acupuncture while others do not. To find out if your insurance covers acupuncture treatment in Tampa, call our office and let a staff member check for you. Our insurance department is educated on how to navigate the insurance company.

Is Acupuncture Painful?

Acupuncture is rarely painful. Occasionally a patient will feel a poke. As you can see from the picture below the needles are about the thickness of human hair. This allows the needles to be inserted with typically no pain at all.