FREQUENTLY ASKED Q'S
ND FAQ's
What is an ND?
An ND in Washington State is a holistic primary care/family doctor that utilizes natural therapies, counseling, diet and lifestyle changes as their core identity. Their scope of practice in WA allows them to prescribe medications, run and order lab test, imaging, and perform minor office procedures. Simply put, Naturopaths are doctors who practice the integration of both the natural and modern sciences.
How is an ND different from a DO?
DO's are also considered primary care physicians but with a heavy focus on the musculoskeletal system and have made a push to be more in line with MD medical care practices.
What can I expect from an ND visit?
Your first ND visit will be primarily focused on collecting client information and a comprehensive medical history. This visit may range from 1-1.5 hours and may or may not include treatment at the end depending on time. Follow-up visits range from 30-45 min.
When should I see an ND? For what conditions?
Treat an ND like any other family doctor or primary care physician with a natural and holistic twist. ND's see a variety of diseases and concerns, and all ages, from infants to the elderly and everything in between. Naturopathy is at its best when treating chronic illnesses, although it can address many minor acute situations as well. Even if natural therapy is not the primary method of treatment, there are many things your ND can work with you on to improve your health status, manage symptoms of other treatments, and/or compliment other therapies.
What modalities (therapies) are used?
ND's are trained in the practice of herablism, counseling, mind-body therapy, physical medicine, homeopathy, nutrition, IV therapy, and lifestyle counseling. Some choose to specialize in certain modalities and refer out for others, and some practice them all.
Are ND visits covered by health insurance?
Health insurance coverage for ND's varies among companies and region. Most WA State insurances now cover some ND visits, but it is the client's responsibility to double check their benefits with their insurance provider prior to making an appointment to ensure adequate coverage.
Please see INSURANCES for more information, or call our office at (425) 582-2081 to ask for a service quote for non-insured patients.
ACU FAQ's
What can I expect with an Acu visit?
Your first acupuncture visit will be 1 hour long, focused on collecting client information and a comprehensive medical history from a TCM perspective - this will differ a little from an ND visit. The appointment will end with a short treatment session. Your follow-up visit will be 30 min. with treatment being the priority.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Aside from a very quick prick when the needle is first inserted, acupuncture should not hurt or be uncomfortable. Some clients report short periods of tingling, a dull ache, muscle twitch, or a heavy sensation with certain points during needle insertion -- this is all normal and can be expected, although some points will elicit no reaction at all which does not mean "it's not working." Of course each person's sensitivity will vary but an acupuncture treatment should be relaxing, rejuvenating, and overall painless.
Is it safe?
Yes, acupuncture is actually a very safe when performed by a professionally trained and experienced practitioner. It is not recommended to receive acupuncture from someone who is not a Licensed Acupuncturist.
What type of needles are used and are they reusable?
The standard needles used in the United States are sterile, disposable needles made of surgical stainless steel. They are single-use only, therefore, are never reused under any circumstances. Needles vary in length and gauge depending on the area of the body being worked on.
Are there side effects?
Acupuncture is a very safe form of therapy, even if it seems like it shouldn't be with needles being the treatment tool of choice. Some clients may experience any of these after a treatment:
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calm, relaxed, sleepy/fatigue
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increased energy
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feeling worse before getting better
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emotional release
Most common side effects from acupuncture
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soreness at the site of needling
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small superficial bruise at a needled point
Rare side effects
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numbness and tingling, nerve pain
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dizziness/lightheaded
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nausea
Cupping
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circular bruising pattern, redness of the skin
Gua Sha
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redness, bruising, soreness/tenderness of the skin
Can pregnant women and children receive acupuncture treatments?
Yes, it is safe even for pregnant women and young children. Different techniques and needles sizes are used, as well as careful considerations taken with these clients.
Which conditions can acupuncture help?
Acupuncture is a holistic therapy and address multiple conditions and concerns at once, from the mind to the body, all can benefit from this type of therapy. Some ailments respond better to acupuncture than others, these include muscle aches and pains, problems relating to sleep, digestion, the skin, mental-emotional, and stress. Many other conditions will benefit from the combination of other therapies along with acupuncture, these will be assessed and prescribed by your physician.
Can I get acupuncture if I don't have a "problem" or "condition"?
But of course! Acupuncture, like Naturopathic medicine and CHM, aims to maintain health and prevent disease. Many clients receive regular treatment as a form of self-care and wellness instead of utilizing it like a "pill" for only when a problem has developed.
Are acupuncture visits covered by health insurance?
Most WA State insurances now cover acupuncture to an extent, therefore, it is the client's responsibility to double check their benefits with their provider prior to making an appointment to ensure adequate coverage. Please note that cupping and Tui Na specifically are not likely covered.
Please see INSURANCES for more information, or call our office at (425) 582-2081 to ask for a service quote for non-insured patients.