Acupuncture is a complementary therapy with Chinese origin used to fight different condition s in the body. This is an ancient treatment that has been in existence for many years. Its popularity has recently surged due to its effectiveness. The treatment has been incorporated into western medicine, thanks to its curative potential to be allowed to carry out the practiced, one is required to have some accepted form of qualification in many countries. For instance, in the US an acupuncturist must be a holder of a Master’s Degree or strictly oriental medicine. This blog will discuss the average cost of acupuncture. But before then, let us have an overall overview of the treatment.
How Acupuncture Works
The whole treatment is based on the idea that disorders are brought about by an imbalance in energy flow within the body of an individual. The treatment uses needles to restore the balance which in turn brings about healing. Basically, there about 350 acupuncture points in the human body. The needles are inserted in these points in order to balance the energy flow.
Prior to the treatment, the acupuncturist will assess the patient first. The assessment is based on health history, the way of life including diet, and reasons for seeking this form of treatment. The acupuncture points are situated at different places and the practitioner will let you know the exact site for the treatment. Whether it will be necessary to unclothe will be determined. You will then be required to lie on an embellished table in order to kick-start the treatment. The whole treatment will involve the following:
• Insertion of the needles. The depth of the needles will differ, though they are usually very thin as to not cause any form of discomfort. In fact, individuals feel the insertion. In general, the number of needles used during the treatment may range between five and twenty. When the needle gets to the required depth, you may experience a slight aching sensation. Also, the needles are inserted at the places where there is a blockage of energy flow.
• The manipulation of the needles. The acupuncturists may softly move the needles upon the insertion, or apply gentle electrical pulses to them.
• The removal of the needles. The needles are often left in the acupuncture points for at least 20 minutes, a period during which you are relaxed. Just like the insertion, the removal of the needles is not painful and cannot result in any discomfort.
During the session, you may fall asleep due to the relaxing experience. Pain from the needles is never a possible side effect. So do not fear! In the subsequent therapies, the practitioners simply build on the patient’s plan and may adjust the treatment to suit the prevailing health condition. Important to note, the acupuncture point may be located away from the exact aching area. Do not be surprised when the insertions are not made in the aching area.
After the treatment, individuals may feel differently. Some may be energized while others may be fatigued. Fatigue simply an indication that you need some rest. Also, the symptoms may worsen in some individuals before the improvements become visible. This usually happens when the body initiates change before the therapeutic process. In addition, acupuncture involves emotions, especially due to the stimulation of the nerves. For this reason, some individuals may cry in the course of the treatment or even a day after the treatment. This does not mean they are in pain; it is just an emotional release. If you encounter muscle spasms, inform your acupuncturist without delay.
Though it is normal for the symptoms to worsen right after the treatment, you need to see improvements after a few days. If this does not happen, then know that acupuncture is not the right therapy for you. The quality of the service often depends on the practitioners. If you are contemplating acupuncture, try My Home Therapy, a reputable establishment that will send professional therapists to your home.
But then, what is the average cost of acupuncture? We discuss that in the following section of this blog.
The Average Cost of Acupuncture
Can we give the average cost of the treatment with certainty? This might be difficult because there are several factors that the overall cost of acupuncture. Let review some of the costs involved in the treatment.
• Intake rates. In most cases, practitioners charge just one rate for the very first appointments and a little bit lower for subsequent treatments. The first treatment is often longer because it requires time to diagnose the problem and establish the treatment plan. The following are some examples of the initial charges:
a) The Leawood Acupuncture Center charges $120. The acupuncturist is Dr. Kim Yoo. This value includes consultation, diagnosis and the whole treatment.
b)Eastern Traditions Acupuncture located in Denver, Colorado Charges $100.
The initial costs from other acupuncture centers range from $75 to $100. This involves consultation and treatment.
• Subsequent Sessions. In most cases, the costs of subsequent sessions range from $50 to $70.
•For weight loss and smoke cessation, as well as the overall treatment, the average cost range from $90 to $150 in each session.
• Acupuncture for fertility will cost an average of $100 to $300 in the first visit and between $75 and $150 for the subsequent sessions. If you take into account the supplements needed for effective treatment, and the suggested 12 sessions, the average cost of IVF acupuncture range between $1000 and $3000
•The back pain costs. This often costs an average of $70 in each session. However the condition is chronic, it may go up to $150 in each session.
•The average cost for sciatica ranges from $50 to $100 in each session. The treatment is very important in eliminating sciatica pain. It is usually an acute condition that demands a lot of time.
Conclusion
In light of the above, the average costs vary. Some acupuncture centers offer some discounts to patients who make prepayments, especially in their subsequent sessions. If you want better charges, you should shop around. What is more, acupuncture can be insured. You can get very reasonable charges with insurance. In fact, some special plans involve the entire coverage for the therapy.
