FAQ

Acupuncture 101

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the general term for the style of medicine that most acupuncturists practice today. It encompasses many different healing methods–the most predominant being acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. These healing methods aim to stimulate and strengthen the body's ability to heal itself. Although TCM considers emotional, psychological and even spiritual factors as root causes of disease, TCM is popularly known for its ability to heal physical ailments such as pain and injury. Using TCM diagnostic tools and theory, acupuncturists aim to assess the condition of the body and the underlying cause of disease. This way, they strive to treat the root (cause) in order to treat the branch (symptoms). This provides for the best chance of a full recovery.

Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy. An acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on the body. This activates the body's Qi and promotes natural healing by enhancing recuperative power, immunity and physical and emotional health. It also can improve overall function and well-being. It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.

Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems. Acupuncture is most often used to alleviate pain and to treat various physical, mental, and emotional conditions. Research has shown that acupuncture calms the areas of the brain associated with pain, stimulates parts of the nervous system associated with rest and recovery, increases blood flow to the treated area, and reduces inflammation. At Herb + Ōhm, we specialize in treatments for fertility, stress, pain, women’s health, men’s health, and digestive health. We’re here to help provide you with the tools you need to live a healthy life. If you have a condition you would like to ask us about, please do not hesitate to contact us at 312.757.1882.

At the core of this ancient medicine is the philosophy that Qi (pronounced "chee"), or Life Energy, flows throughout the body. Qi helps to animate the body and protect it from illness, pain and disease. A person's health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Qi circulates through specific pathways called meridians. There are 12 main meridian pathways throughout the body. Each is connected to specific organs and glands. Meridian pathways are like rivers. Where a river flows, it transports life-giving water that nourishes the land, plants and people. In the same way, meridian pathways transport life-giving Qi to nourish and energize every cell, organ, gland, tissue and muscle. When Qi flows freely throughout the body, one enjoys good physical, mental and emotional well-being. An obstruction of Qi anywhere in the body is like a dam, backing up the flow in one area and restricting it in others. This blockage can hinder the distribution of the nourishment that the body requires to function optimally.

Many things influence the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, diet, accidents or excessive activity can lead to a blockage or imbalance of Qi. Normally, when this imbalance occurs, the body naturally bounces back, returning to a balanced state of health and well-being. When the disruption to Qi is prolonged or excessive, or if the body is in a weakened state, then illness, pain or disease can set in.

During the initial exam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding your symptoms, health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or unbalanced. After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment. Visits with your acupuncturist may last from 30 to 90 minutes.

There are 12 pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for 27 individual qualities that effect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.

The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.

The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes. Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors: your constitution, your age, the severity and duration of the problem, whether you are taking medications among others. An acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week, monthly visits for health maintenance or seasonal "tune ups."

Cupping is a therapy designed to stimulate the flow of blood and Qi within the superficial muscle layers. It is used for sore muscles, tension, neck pain and the common cold. In this therapy, your acupuncturist will place small glass or plastic "cups" over specific areas on your body. A vacuum is created under the cup using heat or suction. They may be moved over an affected area or left in place. You may leave the office looking as though a large octopus gave you a big hug. There is no need for alarm. The slight redness will quickly dissipate.

Gua Sha is another technique used to release muscle tension, tightness and constriction. A specialized tool is used to gently scrape or rub the skin over a problem area. Gua Sha feels a bit like deep massage. This too may leave some slight redness that will quickly dissipate.

Tui Na translates as "push grasp." It is a massage technique that moves Qi in various parts of the body. It is used to relieve muscle pain, tension and inflammation and to heal injuries.

Moxibustion is a treatment that uses an herb called Chinese mugwort. It may be burned on the handle of the needle, above the skin, on salt or on a slice of ginger. This is used to "warm" acupuncture points or areas in order to quicken the healing process.

Your first visit

Prior to your treatment, limit caffeine and alcohol intake, eat something light, and hydrate. Arrive wearing clothing that is loose and comfortable, as you may be fully or partially clothed during your treatment. This is so that your acupuncturist can access multiple acupuncture points on the body for the most effective and thorough treatment. Also, it is important to stay well hydrated and rest as much as possible the remainder of the day. Avoid vigorous exercise, massage or other treatment modalities by other practitioners post acupuncture in order to facilitate the healing process.

During the initial exam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding your symptoms, health and lifestyle. We need to get to know you in order to determine the root cause of your body’s symptoms. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive Chinese Medical diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or unbalanced. After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment. During this time, your acupuncturist will choose acupuncture points on the body to needle to strengthen and restore balance to your body. Because the treatment is geared toward holistic health and address the root cause of symptoms, your acupuncturist may also recommend food therapy, lifestyle modifications and other adjunctive therapies, such as cupping, gua sha, or moxibustion, to assist in restoring balance and health to your body. In the following visits, we will assess your progress based on your response to treatment and make tailored adjustments to your treatments as you continue to progress. Visits with your acupuncturist may last from 30 to 90 minutes.

Our main mode of treating is by private appointments. We use private rooms and devote the whole time to you. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll notice that everything has been carefully selected to enhance your relaxation and comfort. Our nature-inspired décor brings the best of the elements to you, including oak, marble, cedar, and water—all in stunning neutral tones.

Each one of Herb + Ōhm’s treatment rooms feature the following subtle details designed to help you to leave your daily stress and pressure at the door:

Heated massage tables customized to your preference at the start of your treatment Memory foam face cradles providing optimal support for your face and neck Special tables for patients who are pregnant or who have recently given birth Fully adjustable room temperature Infrared heat lamps to enhance blood flow and stimulate healing Handheld bells to immediately alert our team if assistance is needed during treatment Customizable aromatherapy to enhance your immersive experience.

Where the acupuncture needle has been inserted, you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or dull ache. Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle. This is called the "Qi sensation". All these reactions are good and a sign that the treatment is working. After treatment, you may feel energized or may experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.

The sensation caused by an acupuncture needle varies. Some people feel a little pain as the needles are inserted, but most people feel no pain at all. The needles are tiny, just a little larger than a cat's whisker or a human hair.

The depth of the insertion varies. For example, your acupuncturist will use a needling technique that is different in fleshier areas, such as your buttocks. Typically, needles are inserted at depths ranging from 1/8" to 1 1/2".

Acupuncture needles are sterile, pre-packaged, disposable, and hair-thin. They can vary in size and length.

Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects except feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded

Yes! In some instances, children actually respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure or Tui Na.

Today, acupuncturists receive 3 to 4 years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in every state.

Herbs can be a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They are used to strengthen, build and support the body or to clear it of excess problems like a cold, fever or acute pain. Your practitioner may suggest starting with herbs and then adding acupuncture to your treatment in the future. This is suggested to build up your internal strength so you can receive the full benefits acupuncture has to offer.

Discounted parking is available across the street from Herb + Ōhm in the self park garage at 200 W. Randolph St. (Northwest corner of Randolph and Wells). Simply insert your parking ticket in the machine at the security desk in our building lobby, and the discount will appear when you pay at the garage.

Link to parking garage: https://www.iparkit.com/locations/west-randolph-parking?start=2019-10-28T19:00:05.505Z&end=2019-10 28T20:00:05.505Z&timezone=America%2FChicago&destination_id=undefined&email=

Our downtown Chicago location is handicapped accessible. The building has an elevator that will take you to the 18th floor, where our clinic is located.

Team Credentials

Our acupuncturists are all national board certified by the NCCAOM, licensed by the state of Illinois, and have master’s degrees or doctorate degrees in Oriental Medicine. Beyond our qualifications and experience, we are a dynamic team of acupuncturists who have a passion for healing and love what we do. We give the kind of treatment that we ourselves would want to receive when facing any health issues, stress, or transition in our lives. We strive to become partners in your health and part of your overall self-care team. To learn more about Herb + Ōhm’s practioners, click HERE.

Policies

At Herb + Ōhm, our highest priority is you. When you schedule an appointment with us (new or returning), that entire appointment time is reserved for you. This approach allows ample time for our practitioners to focus on your health status changes, reassessment of current treatment strategy, and any herbal medicine prescription updates (as needed). Our goal is to provide you with the most comprehensive, personalized care experience possible.

We ask for a 24-hour cancellation notice when you cannot keep your scheduled appointment. In the event of an extenuating circumstance, special consideration will be given. In all other cases, patients will be responsible for a $50 missed appointment fee. Herb + Ōhm requires a credit card to be on file in order book and hold and appointment. We will use this card on file for any missed appointment fees.

We understand that life doesn’t always cooperate. Our time with you is important. If you’re going to be arriving late to an appointment, please alert the office as soon as possible. Arriving more than 15 minutes late will be considered a missed appointment. Again, if a special circumstance arises, it will depend on the practitioner’s schedule if your appointment can still be accommodated.

Herb + Ōhm accepts cash, VISA / MasterCard/Discover / AMEX / credit cards, Health savings account (HSA) cards, and Flex spending account (FSA) cards. We also require a credit card to be on file in order book and hold an appointment. If you have further questions or prefer to speak with a member of our administrative team, please call us at 312-787-1882.

Insurance

In Network Providers

Herb + Ōhm is an in-network provider with BCBS. As part of our in-network agreement with this provider, we will verify acupuncture benefits, file claims, and facilitate the processing of claims on behalf of all in-network patients. An administrative fee is built into our service rates, which we bill to your insurance provider for the time it takes to submit claims and collect payment.

Out of Network Providers

Upon request, Herb + Ōhm will provide a superbill to patients with out-of-network coverage. Patients may directly submit these superbills to their insurance company for potential reimbursement. Please note: Out of network insurance providers cover a limited number of diagnoses related to acupuncture. There is no guarantee that your insurance company will cover your diagnosis even if you ultimately have acupuncture coverage.

In-network Insurance Payments and Policies FAQ

Why is my amount due per treatment more or less than your cash rate while I pay my annual deductible?

Herb + Ōhm’s cash rates include a time-of-service discount because payment is received in full at the time of service.

To become an in-network provider, Herb + Ōhm has established contracted rates with each in-network insurance company. These rates differ by insurance carrier and include an administrative fee for the time it takes to verify benefits, file claims, facilitate claim processing, and await payment. The total you pay Herb + Ōhm toward your deductible will never exceed the amount of your annual deductible. Each insurance company simply structures the deductible rate of payment differently.

Why are the total billings on my EOBs different than your cash rates?

Herb + Ōhm’s cash rates include a time-of-service discount because payment is received in full at the time of service. To become an in-network provider, Herb + Ōhm has established contracted rates with each in-network insurance company. These rates differ by insurance carrier and include an administrative fee for the time it takes to verify benefits, file claims, facilitate claim processing, and await payment.

What if I meet my deductible with a different medical provider?

We do our best to track your deductible from the amount you pay in our office. If you are seeing other medical providers and meet your deductible before it is met at our office, please notify us so that we may begin applying your copay or coinsurance in the future.

What happens after I meet my deductible? How much will I owe per treatment?

The deductible is how much you pay before your insurance starts paying.  Generally, if you haven’t met your out of pocket maximum, you will owe a copay or a co-insurance amount per treatment once you’ve met your deductible.  These amounts will vary based on your individual insurance policy.

What’s the difference between co-insurance and a copay?

Co-insurances and copays are a form of cost sharing for health services between insurance companies and subscribers (you). A copay is a flat fee, while a co-insurance is a percentage of the cost for a health service paid by a member after they have reached their deductible. Co-insurance amounts vary by insurance carrier and policy.  Upon request, our front desk team can provide you with an estimate of your coinsurance per treatment for an initial and follow up visit.

What is an out of pocket maximum?

An out of pocket maximum is a predetermined limited amount of money that an individual must pay before an insurance company will pay 100% of an individual’s healthcare expenses for the remainder of the year. If you know you have met your out of pocket maximum, please notify our office and we will no longer apply a copay or coinsurance to your future treatments.

I don’t know whether I have coverage at the time of my acupuncture treatment. If I pay cash for my initial treatment today and find out I have insurance coverage for acupuncture, can you retroactively apply my insurance to the treatment?

Yes. Depending on your coverage, this situation may result in additional funds owed toward your deductible or a credit that can be applied toward future copays/coinsurances or deductible amounts. Please note: we will only retroactively apply your insurance toward your initial treatment if your insurance status is pending at that time. We will not retroactively apply your insurance if you notify us that you’d like to use insurance after receiving multiple treatments.

I have a certain number of covered visits per year on my policy. What if I receive more than my allotted visits per year?

While Herb + Ōhm does its very best to track your number of visits and notify you once you are approaching your last covered visit, should you exceed your maximum covered visits per year, you will owe a balance equal to our cash rate for the uncovered visits.

Herb + Ōhm provides verification of acupuncture benefits for in network patients only.

To start this process, we need a photo/copy of your ID, as well as the front and back of your insurance card, and the date of birth of your plan subscriber (only needed if you are under someone else's plan). This information can be given to us in person, emailed to info@herbandohm.com, or submitted on our website using this form. If you submit your information on our website, please bring a copy of your ID and insurance card to your initial acupuncture visit.

After we verify your benefits, we will contact you to let you know what is covered, as well as an estimate of what your treatment coverage and payments may look like as you meet your deductible (if applicable). Please allow 5-6 business days to complete the insurance verification process. If our services are covered by your insurance plan, you will have the option of agreeing to Herb + Ōhm submitting your treatments to insurance. You are responsible for paying your in-network deductible in full, and a payment plan will be presented to you at your first visit.