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FAQ

Acupuncture

  • Does Acupuncture hurt?
    Most people barely feel anything, at most a momentary sensation. Needles used in acupuncture are as thin as a human hair and are designed to be comfortably left in while you rest during your treatment.
  • Are there any side effects to acupuncture?
    Side effects are minimal, if any, and may include soreness or itching at the needle site, bruising, fatigue, temporary worsening of some symptoms, and emotional release. Some patients feel very relaxed after their session while others are energized. If you have concerns, please speak with Dr. Rachelle before your session.
  • What does "TCM" stand for?"
    "TCM" stands for Traditional Chinese Medicine, also known as East Asian Medicine or Eastern Medicine and refers to the traditional methods used to promote health and healing that come from China, Japan, and Korea. The most recognized form of TCM in the West is acupuncture, but acupuncture is just one of the five branches of TCM modalities used worldwide. The other four are moxibustion (heat and aromatherapy), herbal/food therapy (diet and nutrition), tuina/guasha (bodywork), and qi gong (breathwork and mindfulness).
  • What areas in Nashville do you service?
    I provide in-home services in and around Nashville, TN at a 35 mi radius from my home. Anything over 35 miles will incur a $1/mile travel fee. Email Rachelle.poffenberger@tcmconcierge.com if you have questions. All in-home services require an initial consultation that can be done virtually or at the time of the initial appointment.
  • What can TCM treat?
    Just about anything....really! Traditional Chinese Medicine is a complete system of medicine that has been used in Asia for thousands of years to treat a broad range of health issues. While acupuncture is most commonly known in the West for treating pain conditions, TCM's complex system of modalities has been recognized by the World Health Organization to treat over 100 known conditions, including gastrointestinal, reproductive, and immune conditions. It's safety and efficacy are unmatched, providing support and relief for everything from birth to end of life.
  • Can children be treated with TCM?
    Absolutely! Treating children with Traditional Chinese Medicine is not only safe, but can help them recover faster from illness, heal more completely after injury or surgery, and can provide natural alternatives to drugs. During a pediatriac session, specialized tools and needles are used to provide a gentle, interactive treatment.
  • Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
    Yes. Not only is it safe, but it is recommended through every trimester, especially the 3rd and 4th trimesters (also known as postpartum). Acupuncture and moxibustion are evidence based practices known to improve birth outcomes and decrease rates of cesearean. For birth and postpartum concierge services, please visit our Birth Concierge service page at: https://p.bttr.to/2IkN8Vz
  • Do you take insurance?
    We currently accept HSA/FSA accounts and are happy to provide you with itemized receipts to submit to your insurance provider. We understand that not everyone has access to insurance that covers acupuncture and TCM and therefore offer many different payment options. Please refer to "Payment Methods" for more information.
  • How can I make an appointment?
    New patients can head over to our booking calendar. For returning patients, you can follow the link provided in your TCM Recommendations email or click here. For Birth or Postpartum Concierge Package reservations, please email Dr. Rachelle directly at Rachelle.poffenberger@tcmconcierge.com. If you've already completed your initial appointment and are needing to book a follow up Labor or Postpartum in-home follow-up session, click here.
  • How do I request in-home services?
    All New Patients, whether requesting in-home services or not, will need to complete their initial consultation virtually or at the time of their initial appointment. You can book your initial appointment here. Follow up in-home appointments can either be requested directly through your patient portal or by following this link.
  • Can my partner and I get a treatment at the same time?
    While multiple patients can receive acupuncture treatments at the same time during in-home sessions. If you are wanting to receive a family plan, please reach out to Dr. Rachelle at Rachelle.poffenberger@tcmconcierge.com for more details.
  • How do I request in-clinic sessions?
    Concierge services are strictly in-home or virtual. In-clinic treatment requests should visit: www.modernacupuncture.com/tn001 or www.modernacupuncture.com/tn002 for our affiliate clinics in Brentwood, TN and Murfreesboro, TN.
  • What is moxibustion?
    Moxibustion is a heat and aromatherapy used in TCM to gently stimulate the meridians and acupuncture points by burning dried mugwort either directly on or indirectly over the skin.
  • What can I expect from my initial consultation and treatment?
    Your first experience starts with an in-depth initial consultation followed by an emailed report with your TCM diagnosis and treatment recommendations. It can take up to 5 business days to receive your recommendations so please make sure to have a complete list of medications, supplements, and past medical history accurately updated in your intake paperwork. After reviewing your health concerns and health goals, your acupuncture session will be personally tailored to you, typically performed in a darkened room - either the bedroom, living room or patio (if doing moxibustion). A healing space can be created wherever there is a soft, comfortable, flat surface.
  • What should I wear for my acupuncture session?
    You can certainly wear whatever you like during your acupuncture session! Most patients prefer loose fitting clothing they are able to easily roll up or slip off, but feel free to wear whatever is most comfortable for you.
  • Will I be prescribed herbs or nutritional supplements?
    All Initial and Follow-up TCM Consultations will typically include a recommendation for supplements and/or herbs that can support your treatment plan, even if you are already taking vitamins or supplements. One of our favorite ways to support our patients is through a "supplement audit", assessing (or re-assessing) your current routine and providing a more tailored dosage for your current needs. We only work with physician grade nutritional supplements and 3rd party tested herbs to provide the safest options for you and your family. Pills not your thing? Not to worry! Our custom TCM pharmacy provides pill-free options and functional culinary medicine to make taking herbs as easy as brewing a cup of tea or making a plate of eggs.
  • What is TCM Nutrition and Dietetics?
    Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCM) Nutrition and Dietetics is one of the 5 branches of TCM. In TCM, emphasis is placed on achieving balance in the body through personalized selections of foods and spices. Strict diets are replaced by intuitive eating and optimal nutrition is encourage through whole foods rather than supplementation.
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