Acupuncture Treatment FAQ

Most patients experience little or no pain during or after acupuncture treatments. Additionally, Brad Hill Wellness also offers needless laser acupuncture treatments which are as effective as traditional needle based treatments.

Acupuncture treatments only use one-time-use sterile, disposable needles for each treatment.

Yes, Brad Hill is licensed by the State of Maryland. He has also previously been licensed and practiced in Maine, New York State, Virginia, West Virginia and Washington, DC. The designation of licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.) is awarded by the state regulatory board. Currently, 43 states, including the District of Columbia, require NCCAOM certification or the passing of the NCCAOM examinations as a requirement to practice acupuncture.

Please take a look at my page on Conditions Treated for more information. Acupuncture goes beyond symptoms to treat the underlying causes of disharmony. It is extremely effective for many chronic illnesses and a powerful preventive approach to health.

One of the fundamental aspects of Chinese Medicine is that each person is a unique individual and, as such, each person’s treatment will be individualized. Call us to discuss your specific concerns.

Chinese herbal medicine includes treatment with substances such as plants, roots, minerals and more. Like acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine is used to re-harmonize imbalances in the body. Chinese formulas are comprised of herbs designed for each individual patient. This special formulation is crucial because these formulas must be delicately composed for the purpose of achieving balance in each disharmonious state of being. Even small deviations in dosage or herb composition can change the entire focus of the formula and therefore, the results. Chinese herbal medicine is often used in conjunction with acupuncture treatments. Please view our video on acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

Yes, children can be treated very effectively and they respond exceptionally well to acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine treatments. For children who are afraid of needles we do offer needleless laser acupuncture treatments.

Some insurance companies cover acupuncture treatment . You will need to check with your specific carrier to find out. Brad is a preferred provider with BlueCross/BlueShield, Aetna and Cigna. In addition, a majority of flexible spending account (FSA) plans can be used to pay for any out of pocket treatment costs. If your insurance plan does not cover acupuncture treatment, you will be expected to pay for your treatment at your appointment.

The first visit will last approximately one and half hours. During this time, Brad will conduct an evaluation of patterns of disharmony through a comprehensive medical and personal history. He will also look at your tongue and read your pulses – diagnostic tools that help to determine how qi (life force energy) is moving through your body. This will be followed by an initial treatment guided by the in-depth evaluation.