Considering acupuncture for the first time? Here are some of the questions patients ask most often — answered plainly by Dr. Chi.
Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are based on the principle of Yin and Yang. "Acupuncture," as defined in the American Heritage Dictionary, is a procedure used in or adapted from Chinese medical practice in which specific body areas are pierced with fine needles for therapeutic purposes — to relieve pain, or to produce regional anesthesia. It can also be used for conditions such as infertility and allergies.
Acupuncture needles are very fine — about the size of a thick hair. They are solid, and nothing is injected through them. A skilled acupuncture practitioner places a needle with little or no sensation. Most patients find the treatment deeply relaxing.
Knowledge and proper use of needle sterilization procedures are part of licensing and certification requirements. Dr. Chi uses pre-sterilized disposable needles only, which are discarded after a single use.
Tui Na is a 2,000-year-old form of Chinese therapeutic massage based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine. It is a non-invasive system of over 125 massage techniques applied to the body's meridian network. Tui Na is used successfully for a wide range of health problems — from musculoskeletal pain to pediatric conditions.
Conditions such as musculoskeletal problems, headaches, high blood pressure, digestive disorders, gynecological and pediatric problems, plus many other acute and chronic conditions. For the complete list, see our Conditions page.
Standards to practice acupuncture safely and effectively have been established by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). Wisconsin follows NCCAOM requirements, and Dr. Chi's practice is fully compliant.
Yes. Chi's Acupuncture accepts BlueCross/BlueShield, United Health Care, Dean Health / Dean Advantage, and iCare Family Partnership. If you don't see your plan listed, please call — many policies cover acupuncture under "alternative care" benefits.
Every patient is different. Some conditions — like a recent shoulder injury — respond quickly, while chronic issues typically benefit from a series of weekly treatments, followed by maintenance visits. Dr. Chi will discuss a realistic plan with you after your first consultation.
Yes. Dr. Chi authored the book Family Infant Tui Na and produced the Pediatric Tui Na video and points chart. Pediatric Tui Na is a gentle, hands-on approach appropriate for infants and young children.
We'd be glad to walk you through what to expect. Call or email anytime — a short conversation is often the best way to decide if acupuncture is right for you.
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