SE Portland Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a Chinese medicine practice that has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves the gentle insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body known as ‘acupoints’. These ‘acupoints’ align with energy pathways, or meridians, through which Qi, or energy, flows.

Acupuncture is based on the fundamental idea that imbalances, blockages in the flow of Qi (energy), known as stagnation, can lead to various physical, mental, and emotional health issues.

Just as Western medical doctors monitor the blood flowing through blood vessels and the messages traveling via the nervous system, acupuncturists assess the flow and distribution of energy within its pathways, meridians, and channels.

Acupuncture Theory

What To Expect During an Acupuncture Visit

When you first come to Neighborhood Chiropractic and Acupuncture, you will be asked to complete a general intake form as well as a more detailed acupuncture questionnaire.

Your acupuncturist will take a complete history, focusing on your main complaint as well as completing a review of the systems of the body.

The examination will include an assessment of your pulses on both wrists, a visual inspection of the tongue, and may also include a brief exam. After gathering this information, your acupuncturist will formulate an initial diagnosis and treatment strategy.

You will then relax on a comfortable massage table. Treatment will begin with the strategic insertion of thin, sterile, single-use needles.

On your first visit, you can expect to receive about a 20-minute acupuncture treatment during your hour and fifteen minute isit.

Explore the ancient practice of acupuncture at Neighborhood Chiropractic and Acupuncture and experience how this holistic approach can help restore balance, alleviate discomfort, and promote a healthier, more vibrant life.

Patient Testimonials

See what our patients are saying about their acupuncture treatments at Neighbhorhood Chiropractic and Acupuncture!

"I had an amazing experience working with Dr. Erika at Neighborhood Chiropractic and Acupuncture. She is very easy to talk to, extremely knowledgeable and great at what she does. Dr. Erika has helped me to improve my health and wellbeing. The facility in general a very helpful receptionist and a calm, welcoming environment."

Brian Moten

"I had a very good experience here today. I had a positive experience with Erika Sigrist. I have booked other appointments. I am looking forward to working with her. Front office staff were welcoming and friendly."

Margaret

★★★★★

★★★★★

Acupuncture FAQs

Are acupuncture needles safe?

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes. At Neighborhood Chiropractic and Acupuncture, all our acupuncturists use needles that are pre-sterilized, pre-packaged, and disposable. Each needle is used only one time and then deposited into a container to ensure safe disposal.

Acupuncture is safe when conducted by a licensed acupuncturist (LAc). In Oregon, acupuncturists are required to attend a rigorous three to four year program and to pass national board exams prior to practicing. Although there are typically no side effects to acupuncture, a patient should disclose any known medical conditions. Acupuncturists at Neighborhood Chiropractic and Acupuncture promote the highest standards of safety by complying with OSHA regulations, practicing universal precautions, and using only stainless steel, sterile, single-use needles.

How does acupuncture work?

According to Chinese medicine theory, acupuncture works primarily by promoting the free movement of blood and energy in the body, the stagnation of which causes pain and/or illness. Western scientific research has shown that acupuncture causes the production of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. However, acupuncture is used for many conditions besides pain. More recent research has shown that the stimulation of certain acupuncture points can activate specific regions of the brain, which then allows regulation of other systems in the body through modulation of molecules such as neurotransmitters and hormones. In general, scientific research has shown that acupuncture can modulate all the primary systems in the body, including the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are much thinner than the needles used to give injections; they are about the diameter of a strand of hair. The needles are so thin that many patients feel only a mild sensation, or sometimes nothing at all. The amount of sensation depends on the location of the point and individual sensitivity levels. It is generally a pleasant experience for most people, even those who dislike needles.

If you are not a fan of needles, our acupuncturists can use 'seeds' which provide stimulation to the region where the needle would go. Seeds do not require the insertion of a needle, only the pressure of a seed pressed on with an adhesive.

How many acupuncture treatments will I need?

The number of treatments required is determined by the patient’s complaint, the underlying health of the patient, and how the patient responds to treatment. For many complaints, especially acute conditions, treatments are recommended weekly for the first 2-4 weeks, and in some cases, more than one visit per week might be advised. This allows the treatments to have a cumulative effect. After this initial period, treatments may reduce in frequency, depending on the individual. Treatment duration can range from a couple of weeks to six months. Some patients continue treatment on a monthly basis, for prevention, which is in keeping with one of the basic philosophies of Chinese medicine, that prevention is better than cure.

Other FAQs

​​A deductible is the amount of money a person must pay out-of-pocket before the insurance company will begin to pay for care. This is a set amount as determined by your insurance plan and often has to be paid each year.

What if I don't get better?

​Sometimes the treatment that we provide isn’t enough. If we don’t see our patients improving steadily, we will consider referring them to someone who can further assist them. We may co-treat or have the other practitioner take over the care entirely. We know and trust many other practitioners in the area, including physical therapists, podiatrists, acupuncturists, naturopaths, orthopedists, neurologists, and primary care practitioners.

Will it be confidential?

Just like any other doctor’s office, we don’t share your information with anyone. That includes your care at the office, correspondence or any other contact you have with us. E-mail questions to the doctors may be printed by our support staff, so sharing highly personal information should be in person.

How do I know if my insurance will pay for alternative care?

We recommend that you check our website, or check with our staff prior to scheduling your initial visit, to make sure your provider is net work and accepting new patients with your insurance carrier. You can input your insurance information when filling out our online paperwork, send us an email with your insurance card (screen shots are fine), or call us and give us your insurance information over the phone. Giving us this information at least a week prior to your initial visit gives our staff time to perform a complimentary benefit check, and contact you if necessary. We will share with you what we find during your benefit check at the time of your visit. Please also bring your insurance card to your first visit, so our staff can upload your card to our system.

Does insurance pay for everything?

Alternative care coverage is dependent on the details of your plan, including specifics on copays, deductibles, and visit limitations. Additionally, not all services are covered under all policies. We will quote all costs to you when describing your benefits.

What if I don't have insurance?

We offer a "time of service discount" to patients who pay on the same day as their appointment. If we are not in network with your insurance, you can see if you have out of network benefits. To use out of network benefits, you would pay your doctor at the time of your visit, and submit a receipt, called a superbill, to your insurance for reimbursement.

What does "out of pocket" mean?

This is a term used to describe the total amount you would have to pay during a plan year for covered healthcare services. This applies to copays, deductibles, and coinsurance payments. After you reach this limit, your health insurance often covers 100% of all covered costs for the rest of the plan year.

What is a copay?

Your share of costs (for example, 20%) after meeting your deductible. Coinsurance means you will pay the full amount of the visit until you meet your deductible, and then once the deductible is met, you will the percentage listed in your benefits, such as 20%.

What is a coinsurance?

What is a deductible?

This is a flat amount you pay for fees such as doctor visits or prescriptions.