Abby Miller, L.Ac., Dipl. CH, ADS

(515) 277-9998
3810 Ingersoll Avenue #B
Des Moines, IA 50312
abby@balanceandbuild.com

























Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is acupuncture?
  • Do I have to chose between acupuncture & other types of health care?
  • What can I expect during my treatment?
  • What is expected of me during and after my treatment?
  • Can acupuncture needles spread disease?
  • How can acupuncture be used in preventative health care?
  • How often should I come?
  • For what disorders is acupuncture useful?

    • WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?

    Originating in China over 3000 years ago, acupuncture is used as a primary health care system throughout the world. This method of healing balances and builds the body's life force or energy known as "qi," which circulates through pathways called "meridians." Traditional Chinese medicine views disease as the result of an imbalance or blockage in the body's natural energy flow. Such imbalance manifests in physical, emotional and psychosomatic stress-related disorders. Needling disperses the blockage of energy and mobilizes the body's natural immune response. Also included in traditional therapies are dietary counseling, various oriental massage techniques, herbal remedies, and moxibustion, a technique of stimulating acupuncture points with heat.

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    DO I HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN ACUPUNCTURE & OTHER TYPES OF HEALTH CARE?

    Acupuncture is compatible with other systems of health care, and I will be happy to work in conjunction with you and other health care practitioners. Kindly inform me of any other health systems and / of medications which you are currently using so that I may integrate our efforts and you receive maximum benefit from all sources. It is also helpful to bring a list of medications and any medical records to the clinic so I can gain a full appreciation of your condition.

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    WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING MY TREATMENT?

    I will carefully evaluate your personal condition by asking questions about past and present medical history (all information is confidential), taking the pulses, observing the tongue, and palpitating various areas of the body for tenderness. After arriving at a specific diagnostic conclusion, I will incorporate one or several of the following techniques:

    Needling: Thin, sterile, stainless steel needles are inserted in specific acupuncture points. These needles are at least five times thinner than typical hypodermic needles. Although you may feel a dull ache or tingling sensation when the needle is stimulated, acupuncture is generally a very relaxing experience.

    Moxibustion: Moxa, or mugwort, is a Chinese herb which is rolled into sticks or cones and burned above the skin. This aromatic herb creates a warm pleasant sensation which regulates the qi.

    Herbs: Herbology is an intrinsic aspect of Oriental medicine. Herbs may be prescribed to reduce acute conditions or as a dietary supplement which will build and strengthen the body.

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    WHAT IS EXPECTED OF ME DURING AND AFTER THE TREATMENT?

    This time has been set aside solely for you. Your job is to relax and allow the healing process to occur. Feel free to ask questions or voice any concerns which arise during the treatment.

    The treatment does not end when the needles are removed. Acupuncture initiates change(s) within the body, but you are responsible to insure that positive patterns are fostered. If possible, take some time to relax directly after your treatment. Most importantly, take an active part in your own health care. I am happy to discuss diet and lifestyle changes which will best benefit your specific condition.

    Occasionally some symptoms of illness may temporarily increase after treatment. This is known as a healing crisis, a positive sign that the body is rallying its strength to move old blockages and patterns of disease so that a balanced flow of energy may be established. Notify me of any aggravation of symptoms.

    Because acupuncture regulates energy, it is important that when you arrive for treatment you are not exhausted, too hungry or too full! Under no circumstance should you have consumed alcoholic beverages or recreational drugs. If there is any chance you are pregnant please inform me. If you experience any disagreeable problems as a result of herbal therapy, please call the clinic. If I am not immediately available, I will return your call within 24 hours.

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    CAN ACUPUNCTURE NEEDLES SPREAD DISEASE?

    No! I follow Environmental Protection Agency standards for needle sterilization. Sterilization procedures protect against the transfer of AIDS, hepatitis and other viral and infectious diseases.

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    HOW CAN ACUPUNCTURE BE USED IN PREVENTATIVE HEALTH CARE?

    Traditional Chinese acupuncture recognizes that aches, pains and other discomforts are common symptoms of a deeper underlying health problem. Therefore, I compile a comprehensive diagnosis which takes into account your body, mind and spirit rather than simply categorizing them into a one-sided picture of symptoms. The basis of acupuncture is to build the body's own immune system so that disease will not develop. Prevention is the best medicine.

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    HOW OFTEN SHOULD I COME?

    Treatments occur weekly for 6-8 weeks. The frequency of subsequent treatments varies with each individual's state of health. There will be time to talk with the acupuncturist about the progress of your treatment. Once your begin to feel better, treatments will be spaced out to every other week, every three weeks, monthly and then sesonally. The goal is to move you as quickly as possible to a maintenence schedule that promotes optimum health.

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    ACUPUNCTURE HAS BEEN FOUND USEFUL IN TREATING THE FOLLOWING CHRONIC AND ACUTE DISORDERS:

    Gynecology/Urology

    Amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menstrual cramps, PMS, infertility, polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, menopause, fibroids, prostatisis, UTIs, bladder and kidney stones, impotence, STDs

    Musculo-Skeletal

    Back pain, neck pain, shoulder, knee and limb pain, sciatica, scoliosis, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel, tendonitis, TMJ, arthritis

    Respiratory

    Asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, allergies, common cold and influenza, nasal congestion, shortness of breath

    Cardiology

    Angina, hypertension, stroke, palpitations, flutters, high cholesterol

    Dermatology

    Eczema/dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, dry skin, itching, wrinkles, spider/varicose veins, scars

    HEENT

    Migraines, cluster and tension headaches, cold sores, post nasal drip, sore throat, blurred vision, floaters, ringing ears

    Gastroenterology

    Irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, diarrhea, constipation, gastritis, ulcers, nausea, vomiting, GERD

    Psychology

    Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, mania, irritability, panic attacks, stress

    Miscellaneous

    Stop smoking, detoxification, diabetes, hypoglycemia, bells palsy, paralysis, numbness, tremors, weight gain/loss, thyroid disorders, insomnia, HIV and AIDS, hepatitis

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    Designed and developed by Greg Zenoble