ACUPUNTURE & non-Healing Skin Wounds

General treatment information for non-healing skin Wounds (Ulcers):

Acupuncture treatments are done daily (Monday through Friday) by Dr. Swing in conjunction with conventional wound care as an outpatient at Bon Secours-St. Joseph Hospital - Pt. Charlotte, Florida. You can actually see visible changes in the wound by the end of your FIRST TREATMENT. For the majority of patients treated, only four acupuncture needles are used. All needles used by Dr. Swing are one time use only - disposable needles. The healing time and care involved varies, depending on the size of the wound (ulcers), age and health of the patient and the amount of blood flow to the wound. Arrangements have been made with a local hotel for a preferred rate to be offered (based on availability) to patients traveling from out-of-town needing accommodations. The hospital also has free transportation from the motel to the hospital for treatments.

How does Medical Acupuncture work?

The classical Chinese explanation is that channels of energy, called meridians, are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish the tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers is like a dam that backs up the flow in one part of the body and restricts it in others. The meridians can be influenced by needling the acupuncture points; the acupuncture needles establish the regular flow through the meridians, unblock the obstructions at the dams and re-establish the regular flow through the meridians. Acupuncture treatments can therefore help the body's internal organs to correct imbalances in their digestion, absorption, and energy production activities, and in the circulation of their energy through the meridians. The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and the brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.

Are there any side effects to the treatment?

Usually not. As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally the original symptoms worsen for a few days, or other general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel, or urination patterns, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work. It is quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment. These pass with a very short time, and never require anything more than a little bit of rest to overcome.

Is acupuncture covered by health insurance?

Some insurance companies currently cover acupuncture costs, other companies do not yet recognize the value of acupuncture. Each health policy must be reviewed to determine acupuncture benefits. The AAMA is working to inform insurance companies and the public in order to standardize payment practices and accessibility to this type of treatment. You can help by insisting that your insurance company offer you reimbursement for medically indicated acupuncture treatments before you accept their policies.