FAQ

DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?

Yes, acupuncture is very effective for many conditions. I have seen very difficult and complicated cases greatly improved or completely resolved with the use of acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and the other modalites I generally utilize in a treatment. However, this change needs to happen on many levels for the best outcomes. That means being consistent with treatments, dietary changes and lifestyle changes.

DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?

For most people acupuncture is a painless process. There can be some mild ache associated with acupuncture, but most people find the experience deeply relaxing and restorative.

WHAT ARE YOUR SPECIALTIES?

I specialize in women’s health, digestive health, pain management and emotional wellbeing. Although these are the main conditions I see here at the clinic, I have successfully treated many other complaints. If you’d like to know if I have experience working with your specific complaint schedule a free 15 minute consultation. I would be happy to spend 15 minutes on the phone to discuss your case. You can also read through Free Flow Health’s Testimonials.

DOES FREE FLOW HEALTH ACUPUNCTURE ACCEPT INSURANCE?

Yes, some insurance is accepted. Most major insurance companies in San Diego and in California cover acupuncture. There are many different plans and different coverage policies. Free Flow Health is in network with Blue Shield and Optum Health which includes United. We also accept out of network insurance if  you have a PPO. Please keep in mind that although you may have acupuncture coverage, insurance companies only cover acupuncture for certain issues, generally pain management. Chinese Medicine treats the whole person and often the types of treatment insurance covers is not in alignment with our medicine. For this reason, for some plans that have limited coverage on treatment modalities and treatment time, we have an additional service fee of $40.

We would be more than happy to check on your benefits for you. Please email drdavis@freeflowhealth.com to get the process started.

HOW BIG ARE ACUPUNCTURE NEEDLES?

Acupuncture needles are the size of a hair. They are single use sterile needles that slide smoothly through the skin and don’t draw blood.

WHAT IS QI?

The concept of Qi is based on the ancient Chinese initial understanding of natural phenomena. That is, Qi is the most basic substance of which the world is comprised. Everything in the universe results from the movements and changes of Qi.

IS ACUPUNCTURE SAFE?

When performed by a licensed acupuncturist acupuncture is very safe. The World Health Organization endorses acupuncture for the treatment of many pain syndromes. Acupuncture has been used safely in China and all around the world. All needles are sterile and single use only.

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHERE TO PUT THE NEEDLES?

With over a decade of experience in acupuncture, I’ve developed a deep understanding of how to assess and address imbalances in the body. During our initial intake, I carefully evaluate your symptoms and overall health to identify which energy channels (or meridians) are out of balance. Using the principles of pattern differentiation, I then precisely place needles along these affected channels to restore harmony and promote healing.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS DOES IT TAKE TO ACHIEVE RESULTS?

Each situation is unique. Generally speaking, acute conditions often resolve within 4-6 treatments while chronic pain and complicated illness may take up to 10-12 treatments. Irregular cycles can take up to 3 months to see a pattern of normalcy begin to take shape.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO COME FOR TREATMENT?

This also depends on the condition. Acute conditions respond well to 2-3 treatments per week for a short period of time. More intense situations and chronic conditions often warrant weekly treatments for a period of time. After their chief complaint is resolved many patients opt to come once or twice a month for wellness and prevention.