Good afternoon everyone!  

 Did you know that Acupuncture is a highly effective treatment for relaxation and reducing anxiety? I have many patients that come in initially for anxiety and they get such remarkable results that they choose to come back monthly to maintain the relaxed feeling. 

How does Acupuncture relax you?

Chinese Medicine explanation:  Specifically placed Acupuncture needles release blocked Chi (energy) in meridians or energy pathways in the body.  Almost any problem can be traced to an imbalance of energy in the body.  Certain Acupuncture points are known to treat certain conditions, like depression, anxiety, low energy, low mood, low sex drive, grief,  etc. so those points will be used when indicated to balance energy levels.

Western Medicine explanation:  Acupuncture points stimulate different parts of the nervous system including the brain to release different chemicals that make you feel good.  Studies are underway that explain these mechanisms further.

How do I know if it will help me?

A series of 3 to 6 Acupuncture treatments will allow us to see how much your body will respond to Acupuncture.  Combining Acupuncture with hydration, improvements in nutrition, and any necessary supplements has you experience even greater results.

Can I get my insurance to reimburse me for Acupuncture?

You will have to check specifically with your plan to see what is covered.  I will be happy to provide you with a receipt with the proper coding to submit to your insurance.  You can also use your HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) funds to pay for your care.  Many of my patients have these types of accounts and have debit cards linked to the accounts.  This allows you to pull funds directly from this account instead of waiting for reimbursment.

 Is it worth getting Acupuncture even if I do not have any health coverage for it?

Yes.  Acupuncture in my office is a whole body treatment.  This also means that if you have several different conditions or achy joints that need attention at the same time, we can address them all in one visit.  For example, I may have a patient that wants help with anxiety, a left shoulder problem, and digestive problems.  I can work on them all at the same time, instead of you needing 3 different visits for 3 different health concerns. 

Using a tool called AcuGraph I take measurements of your energy levels at each visit.  You will receive a customized treatment at each visit based upon what your energy patterns look like RIGHT NOW, and not based upon symptoms you had 3 weeks ago! I explain the Acugraph scan at every visit and give you a copy of the report to take home with you, so that you can better understand the relationship between symptoms and energy levels in your body.  If you are into prevention and maintenance of your body, Acupuncture is a cost-effective and valuable tool to enhance your health. 

Click here to see an Acugraph scan

How long does a visit take?

If you are a new patient, plan 60 to 90 minutes for your first appointment.  Follow up visits will be in the 30 to 45 minute range.

 Do I need to wear any special clothing?

I suggest that patients wear clothing that can easily be moved, especially pants that can be raised above the knees and shirts that have sleeves that can be pushed up past the elbows.  If a patient has to come directly from work and is in uncomfortable business attire, I recommend bringing shorts or a comfortable change of clothing.  Your comfort is critical to your treatment.

 What if I have something else that I want you to treat?  Will I still feel relaxed after my treatment?

If you have more than one health concern that you'd like me to address, make sure you share it with me before your session.  Patients almost always feel so much more relaxed after their treatment, even if that wasn't one of their goals.  Some of my patients also say they feel relaxed yet alert and focused as well.

 What if I don't have any health problems?  Is Acupuncture something I can do anyways?

Yes!  Like I said before, using the Acugraph I can see where your meridian system is out of balance.  This imbalance happens before you experience symptoms.  Why not catch it before it becomes a problem?  

 Ok, I think I'm ready to try it.  How do I schedule an appointment?

That's great! I look forward to meeting you. To schedule an appointment, please call the office at 816-256-3603.  The staff will forward your call to me and you can ask me any questions you have before we schedule your appointment.

Better Health is only a phone call away!

 Dr. Kristine Baker