FAQ
General
Long answer: For millennia the Chinese have understood the significance of the eight directions in orienting ourselves in space, using the different qualities of these directions to achieve balance, and to find our center. The eight-sided symbol of the Octagon thus carries a deep historical significance in Eastern Asia. Each of the 8 sides of the figure is more than a direction in space. It is also a representation of one of the possible states of Yin and Yang, and a symbol for the “Qi,” or energetic flavor, of an aspect of the natural world. We find the sky and the earth, fire and water, the mountain and the lake, the wind and thunder, all depicted symbolically around the figure of the octagon. Recognizing our intimate connection with the natural world, the Chinese understood that health is a dynamic balance between all these energies. Each of us naturally finds ourselves in the center of all the directions, at the crossroads of where the Qi of all the elements meet and comingle. Health is not some static ideal state, reached by taking a pill or undergoing a procedure, but rather an ability to be fully present to the many connections we participate in: our diet, our environment, our personal relationships, our daily habits of movement and rest, and our unique health history. As healthcare providers, it is our job to assist our patients in achieving balance, recognizing that the center is only found in our connections to the greater world, and to the people around us. At Octagon Community Acupuncture we use the tools of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary and lifestyle recommendations, and the healing power of community to help you find dynamic health. Short Answer: our first clinic in Fruitvale had space for 8 recliners!
The needles used in acupuncture treatment are much finer than the needles most of us know from the doctor's office. Because they are not hollow, they slide smoothly through the surface of the skin without much pain. Most patients feel a little pinch upon initial insertion. During the treatment, a sensation of tingling, electricity, warmth, or a dull ache is often felt in the area of the needle. This doesn't keep most patients from slipping into a state of deep relaxation. Some points are more sensitive than others (and this can change, day by day). Some problems can require stronger needling technique. And some practitioners use more vigorous stimulation than others. Communicate with your acupuncturist about your experience and your concerns! We have lots of experience dealing with patients that have bad associations with needles, and our compassionate and skilled staff will do their best to make sure your treatment is as comfortable as possible. If you decide that you absolutely can't stand the idea of needles, we have massage, herbal medicine, and qi gong classes to help you reach your health goals.
What are the side effects of acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been used continually for centuries, and is a unique form of medicine in that the side effects are truly minimal. Occasionally there is tenderness or light bruising around the area of the needle insertion. This normally goes away in a day or so, and is perfectly normal. In very rare instances there is a feeling of more persistent discomfort or tingling pain. If you are experiencing this, please contact us so we can assess if further attention is necessary.
One of the ways that we keep our costs down is by not dealing with the bureaucracy of insurance companies. We are happy to provide you with an itemized receipt, complete with the ICD-9 and CPT codes used by insurance companies, which you can then submit yourself for remuneration. Keep in mind that our sliding scale fees are about equal to most co-payments, so don't let this keep you from visiting us!
We have no designated off-street parking, but finding spots in the immediate area is not a problem. Generally you get 2 hours, but check signs to make sure it isn't a street-sweeping day. There is bicycle parking down the street by the Kingfish Pub (we've requested our own from the City of Oakland, but these things take time).
Can I get acupuncture during pregnancy?
Acupuncture has been proven to be effective in treating many of the issues women experience during pregnancy. It is particularly good for dealing with the nausea associated with "morning sickness," but can also help with back pain, restless leg syndrome, sciatic pain, depression and anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, heartburn, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, breech presentation, and delayed labor. PLEASE INFORM YOUR ACUPUNCTURIST if you are pregnant, or trying to conceive. This will inform which points and herbs we will use in your treatment.
Should I make an appointment, or is it okay to just drop-in when it is convenient for me?
We are happy to see you on a drop-in basis (and our Fruitvale location accepts drop-ins only). This being said, making an appointment helps us organize patient flow, and see you in a more timely manner. If you do choose to drop-in, please understand that there may be a wait while we attend to patients that have appointments, or have dropped in before you. Take this time to relax with a cup of tea in our comfortable waiting room, or get a massage from one of our skilled massage therapists.
How often will I need to come?
During your first visit we will take a health history and give you a treatment plan. How often and for how long we will need to see you depends on the seriousness of your condition, how long you have had it, and how quickly you respond to treatment. One reason that we love the community acupuncture model is that it is affordable to come back often enough to see real results quickly. For longer term issues that have resisted other treatments, we may need to see you several times a week for several months. For short-term problems that haven't had time to lodge deeply in your body, one or two treatments often does the trick. Keep in mind that lifestyle is a major factor in your recovery, so regulating sleep, diet, stress, and exercise will facilitate your healing and reduce the number of visits you will need.
