California Department of Consumer Affairs

A C U P U N C T U R E B O A R D

A Consumers Guide to

Acupunctureand OrientalMedicine

Additional copies of this publication areavailable from:

Department of Consumer AffairsACUPUNCTURE BOARD

444 North 3rd Street, Suite 260Sacramento, CA 95814-0226

For more information call 916/445-3021, orvisit the Acupuncture Board Web site:

www.acupuncture.ca.gov

Revised 2004

Arnold Schwarzenegger, GovernorState of California

Fred Aguiar, SecretaryState and Consumer Services Agency

Charlene Zettel, DirectorDepartment of Consumer Affairs

California Department of Consumer Affairs

A C U P U N C T U R E B O A R D

A Consumers Guide to

Acupunctureand Oriental

Medicine

Page 4 A C o n s u m e r ’ s G u i d e t o

The theory and practice of acupuncture is based onOriental medicine (also known as traditionalChinese medicine), a comprehensive natural

health care system that has been used in Asian countriesfor thousands of years to preserve health and diagnose,treat and prevent illness.

Acupuncture treats health conditions by stimulating“acu-points” found at specific locations on the surface ofthe body. Acupuncturists stimulate the acu-points byinserting very thin needles through the skin to producephysiological effects. Other methods are also used tostimulate acu-points, such as heat or finger-pressure.

The general theory of acupuncture is that properphysiological function and health depend on the circula-tion of nutrients, substances and energy called Qi (pro-nounced “chee”) through a network of “channels” or“meridians.” This network connects every organ and partof the body, providing balance, regulation and coordina-tion of physiological processes.

Pain and ill-health result when the flow of Qithrough the body is disrupted or blocked by many things,including disease, pathogens, trauma/injuries and medica-

A Consumers Guide to

Acupuncture andOriental Medicine

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What Is Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine?

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tion (side-effects), as well as lifestyle factors such asoverwork, poor diet, emotions, lack of rest and stress.

Stimulation of the appropriate acu-points throughacupuncture treatments helps to restore sufficient,continuous and even flow of Qi and other nutrientsthroughout the body, thereby restoring health andbalance to the body, while relieving pain and othersymptoms.

The acupuncturist uses a sophisticated and com-plex system of diagnostic methods that take into consid-eration the person as a whole, discerning the body’spattern of disharmony rather than isolated symptoms.The aim is not only to eliminate or alleviate symptoms,but more importantly to treat the underlying cause,increase the ability to function and improve the qualityof life.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine is one of thenewest primary health care professions in California.The potential benefits of acupuncture are widely recog-nized, and it is being increasingly integrated withmainstream health care. Since the 1970’s, when acu-puncture and Oriental medicine first became available inthe United States, more than 15 million Americans havetried it. The risk of side effects is low and the potentialbenefits are high. Knowing what to expect from acu-puncture will help patients get the most benefit fromtreatments. The purpose of this booklet is to help con-sumers approach acupuncture treatment from an in-formed perspective.

“The aim isnot only toeliminate oralleviatesymptoms…but to treat theunderlyingcause… andimprove thequality of life”

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Endorsement by the National Institutes of Health○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

In November 1997, the National Institutes of Health(NIH) convened a panel of 12 distinguished physi-cians and scientists to review the history, licensing,

practice and current status of clinical research on theeffectiveness of acupuncture. The first formal endorse-ment of acupuncture by the NIH stated: “There issufficient evidence of acupuncture’s value to expand itsuse into conventional medicine and to encourage furtherstudies of its physiology and clinical value.”

The panel determined there is clear evidence thatneedle acupuncture is effective for post-operative,chemotherapy and pregnancy-related nausea and vomit-ing, and for post-operative dental pain. Other conditionsfor which evidence is good but further substantiation isrequired include: post-operative pain, myofascial andlower back pain, addiction, stroke rehabilitation, carpaltunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, headache, tennis elbow,fibromyalgia, menstrual cramps and asthma. The panelnoted the World Health Organization has identified morethan 40 conditions for which acupuncture may behelpful. The panel found that one of the advantages ofacupuncture is that the incidence of adverse effects issubstantially lower than that of many drugs or otheraccepted medical procedures used for the same condi-tions. To read the NIH Consensus Statement, go tohttp://consensus.nih.gov/cons/107/107_intro.htm.

“There is sufficient evidence ofacupuncture’s value to expand its use

into conventional medicine…”

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Licensed Acupuncturists in California

“Beinginformed andunderstandingwhat toexpect…will make youfeel morecomfortableabout theexperience”

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The State of California has led the nation in thefield of acupuncture, being the first to licensequalified practitioners as primary health care

professionals in 1979. To qualify for licensing inCalifornia, a student must attend a California Acupunc-ture Board-approved school to receive theoretical andclinical training and graduate with a master’s degree.Upon graduation, qualifying candidates must pass acomprehensive state licensing exam. A valid licenseissued by the Board must be posted in a conspicuousoffice location.

What To Expect From AcupunctureTreatment

Being informed and understanding what to expectfrom acupuncture treatment from the beginningwill make you feel more comfortable about the

experience.

Determine Your Goals Are you looking for a primaryhealth care practitioner or someone who will work withyour current physician? Are you seeking short-termtreatment for a specific complaint or do you want aprevention-oriented, holistic approach to the health ofmind, body and spirit that acupuncture and Orientalmedicine can provide? Do you have a work-relatedinjury that is covered by Workers’ Compensation?

Select a Practitioner Ask friends, relatives, your doctoror your health plan for a referral to a reputable practitio-ner. You can access a list of professional associations orverify a license through the California AcupunctureBoard’s Web site: www.acupuncture.ca.gov

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Continued on following page

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What To Expect From Acupuncture Treatment continued○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

Once you have some names, call the practitioners’offices and ask questions. Find out about their training,length of practice, which aspects of acupuncture andOriental medicine they employ, any specializations andtheir experience in treating your ailment. You may alsowant to ask about the cost of treatment.

Diagnosis An acupuncturist’s diagnosis is determined inpart using methods similar to other health care practitio-ners: asking patients for a thorough history of theirhealth, diet, exercise patterns and chief complaints;performing a physical exam, ordering laboratory tests,X-rays or MRIs; and making a referral to a specialist, asnecessary. However, the acupuncturist also uses uniquediagnostic techniques, such as taking the patient’s pulseon both wrists and observing the tongue, complexion andother signs. The three pulses felt on each wrist arethought to correspond to certain organs and functions.The practitioner should explain the nature of your prob-lem, the recommended treatment plan and an anticipatedprognosis (outcome).

Treatment Procedures Modern acupuncture needles arestainless steel, between one-half and three inches long,ultra-fine and quite flexible. They are pre-sterilized,nontoxic and disposable (single use). When the needlesare tapped into the skin, there may not be any sensation.Much depends on the location (hands and feet tend to bemore sensitive), the condition being treated and theacupuncturist’s technique. Needles are typically placed inseveral acu-points and are usually left in about 20-40minutes. The goal is to normalize the circulation of Qiand blood by stimulating the energy point, which encour-ages the body’s natural healing process. Stimulation can

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be done by rotating the needles manually or attachingelectrodes to send a weak electric current through theneedles (electroacupuncture).

The number of treatments depends upon theduration, severity and nature of your health condition.Two or three treatments may be sufficient for an acutecondition, while a series of 5 to 15 treatments may beneeded to resolve chronic conditions. Some degenerativeconditions may require ongoing treatments over a longperiod of time.

Techniques used may include: moxibustion (burn-ing herbs to heat acupoints), cupping (suction), auriculartherapy (ear acupuncture), tui na (manipulation) andacupressure.

Patients should evaluate their progress after eachsession. Some relief should be apparent in two or threesessions, or six to eight sessions for more pervasiveconditions. If you see encouraging signs, stick with it.Ask your practitioner questions about your treatment andimprovement. If your response to treatment is not satis-factory, the practitioner may consider further diagnosticexams, modify the treatment plan or refer to an appropri-ate practitioner, if necessary.

Treatment Precautions It is not recommended to havean acupuncture treatment if you are very hungry orextremely tired.

Some bruising may occasionally occur afterneedling. If you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood-thinning medications, you should inform your acupunc-turist before undergoing treatment.

If you are pregnant or have a pacemaker, tell theacupuncturist so that appropriate herbs and acu-pointswill be chosen.

Continued on following page

“If you seeencouragingsigns, stickwith it.Ask yourpractionerquestionsabout yourtreatment andimprovement”

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Herbal Therapy In the course of your treatmentChinese herbal remedies may be prescribed. They maybe dispensed as raw herbs or in pills, capsules, gran-ules, or tinctures which make them easier to ingest.Most herb formulas can treat a wide variety of symp-toms while stimulating the body’s natural healingprocess.

In California, acupuncturists are the only licensedhealth care professionals who are required to be trainedand tested for competency in prescribing herbal medi-cine. California-approved acupuncture schools offer aminimum of 450 classroom hours of instruction intraditional Oriental herbology in addition to clinicaltraining. Chinese herbal medicine has been practicedsafely and effectively for centuries and has the greatestpotential for beneficial results when prescribed by atrained professional who recognizes the benefits andrisks.

In recent years, herbs have become very popularto self-treat many conditions. They are available inhealth food stores, supermarkets and on the Internet.While herbs are promoted as safe, inexpensive “natu-ral” alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs, many healthcare professionals have concerns about safety, effec-tiveness and potential misuse of herbal products,especially when self-prescribed. There are also ques-tions of purity, strength and standardization of herbs.

The California Acupuncture Board stronglyrecommends consulting an acupuncturist before begin-ning any herbal therapy. Also, it is very important toinform both your physician and acupuncturist of all theproducts you are currently taking (drugs, herbs, other

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“Most herbformulascan treat awide varietyofsymptomswhilestimulatingthe body’snaturalhealingprocess.”

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supplements) so they can monitor effectiveness, ensuresafety from adverse reactions and watch for possibleinteractions. If you have an allergic reaction to anyherbs, let your acupuncturist know.

Who Can Benefit?

Patients of acupuncturists range from infants tosenior citizens. They may be seeking an alterna-tive to Western medicine or it may be their last

hope for relief, having exhausted other methods oftreatment for a chronic condition. Or, an acupuncturistmay be their first choice of health care practitioner for alow-risk form of treatment with few side effects.

What About Insurance Coverage?

Most California insurance plans include acu-puncture treatment in their policies. Ask yourinsurer about coverage or reimbursement.

Some plans that don’t normally cover acupuncture willpay for treatments if a physician recommends them.Many acupuncturists are providers for traditional PPOand HMO plans. Acupuncturists are covered underCalifornia State Medi-Cal and Workers’ Compensation.

“Most California insuranceplans include acupuncturetreatment in their policies.”

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California Acupuncture Board

The California Acupuncture Board issues licensesand regulates the profession according to theAcupuncture Licensure Act, which identifies

acupuncture as a primary health care profession. TheBoard is an autonomous body under the Department ofConsumer Affairs. The primary responsibility of theAcupuncture Board is to protect consumers from incom-petent, unprofessional and fraudulent practitioners.

The Board establishes standards for the approvalof schools, tutorial programs and continuing educa-tion; oversees the administration of the licensingexamination; issues new and renewal licenses; andhandles enforcement issues when complaints arereceived. The Board strives to promote safe prac-

tice through the improvement of educational train-ing standards.

For complete information on the responsibilities ofthe Acupuncture Board, please see the Board’s Web site:www.acupuncture.ca.gov

The mission of the CaliforniaAcupuncture Board is to benefit andprotect the public throughappropriate regulation of licensure,education standards, andenforcement of the AcupunctureLicensure Act.

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How Are Complaints Filed?

A complaint should be filed by anyone whobelieves that a licensed acupuncturist hasengaged in illegal or unethical activities related

to their professional responsibilities. Anyone may file acomplaint, and the Board will review each complaintreceived.

The most effective complaints are those thatcontain firsthand, verifiable information. While anony-mous complaints will be reviewed, many times it isimpossible to pursue without documented evidence ofthe allegations made.

All complaints MUST be in writing and includethe names, addresses and phone numbers of both theperson making the complaint and the licensee. Pleaseexplain, in your own words, the nature and facts of yourcomplaint. Include as much information as possible,including any documentary evidence available. You mayuse the consumer complaint form or file a complaintonline at the Board’s Web site, under Enforcement.

Complaints should be sent to:

ACUPUNCTURE BOARD444 North 3rd Street, Suite 260Sacramento, CA 95814-0226

“The most effective complaintsare those that contain firsthand,

verifiable information.”

Page 14 A C o n s u m e r ’ s G u i d e t o

Conditions Treated

Treatment efficacy depends on the severity andnature of the condition being treated. Acupunctur-ists are trained to identify conditions that may

require referral to a specialist, so it is important for youto provide detailed information about your condition sothat important medical problems are not overlooked.

If you are under the simultaneous care of differenthealth practitioners, it is important to keep all of theminformed about your treatments to ensure there are noadverse interactions among treatments.

The following is a list of health conditions com-monly treated by licensed acupuncturists.

• allergies/asthma

• anxiety/depression

• arthritis/joint problems

• back and neck pain

• bladder/kidney problems

• childhood illnesses

• constipation/diarrhea

• colds/influenza

• cough/bronchitis

• dizziness

• drug/alcohol/smoking addiction

• effects of chemotherapy

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“… it is importantto keep all yourproviders informedabout yourtreatments”

• fatigue

• gastrointestinal disorders

• headache/migraine

• high blood pressure

• immune system deficiency

• knee pain

• menopausal discomfort

• musculoskeletal injuries

• pre-menstrual syndrome

• paralysis/numbness

• rhinitis

• sciatica

• sexual dysfunction

• sinusitis

• skin problems

• stress/tension

• tendonitis

California Department of Consum

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ACU

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444 North 3rd Street, Suite 260

Sacramento, C

A 95814-0226