Acupuncturists are trained in a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) called acupuncture. Acupuncturists help relieve pain, promote healing and improve physical, mental and emotional health and well-being through stimulation of specific points by inserting needles and applying heat or electrical stimulation on the body.
National health statistics show more than three million people receive acupuncture a year. Over the last year, your BBB recorded more than 15,000 inquiries across North America about acupuncturists.
Your BBB offers tips for finding a reliable acupuncturist:
• Get recommendations from family and friends. If they’re pleased with who they’ve used, most likely you’ll be too.
• Consider reputation, years of service and services provided.
• Make sure you feel comfortable with the acupuncturist. Ask what procedures are performed in the office. Check if the office is clean and staff are friendly and polite.
• Discuss length of treatment. For instance, a chronic illness may need months of treatment.
• Ask about treatment styles. For example, there’s acupuncture and herbology, Korean, Japanese, ear, cosmetic acupuncture, etc. There is no evidence that one style is more effective than another.
• Consider location. Find an acupuncturist that is convenient to both home and/or work. Also, check hours of operation and appointment policies.
• Determine if the acupuncturist belongs to professional organizations like the American Association of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine. Professional organizations typically offer members continuing education.
• Be sure the acupuncturist is licensed and insured as appropriate. Some states don’t require acupuncturist to be licensed, so be sure to choose one which is certified by the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists.
• Check with your insurance company to see if and which acupuncturists are covered under your policy.
Remember, a physician or chiropractor may also be able to perform acupuncture. They’re required to have 100-200 hours of training in acupuncture.
If you have any questions regarding acupuncturists, you can always get help from your BBB, such as a list of BBB Accredited acupuncturists and Business Reviews on ones you're considering. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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