IS IT PAINFUL?

No, acupuncture should not hurt. Sometimes a momentary prick is felt as the needle is insertion, but eventually all discomfort disappears. The sensation of a dull pressure or tingling around the point may appear as the Chi (body’s life force) arrives to the area. Most people are surprised by how relaxed they feel during and after the treatment.

 

IS IT SAFE?

Yes, as long as it is performed by a competent physician, acupuncture is extremely safe. Acupuncturists in California are required by law to use pre-sterilized stainless steel disposable needles that are discarded after a single use to eliminate any possibility of infection.

 

HOW CAN THIS MEDICINE HELP ME?

Traditional Oriental Medicine is one of the oldest forms of medicine still practiced in modern era. It is an ancient system that has been evolving for over three and a half thousands of years and has been used to successfully treat a wide variety of health conditions ranging from common colds, flues, nausea, indigestion, high blood pressure, urinary tract infections, infertility, menstrual irregularities, pain, anxiety and insomnia. The physician uses a holistic approach to achieve balance within the body naturally through personalized treatments that address patient’s current signs and symptoms as well as the underlying cause of the illness.

Acupuncture is but one of many modalities a Traditional Oriental Medicine Physician can use to improve health and overall wellbeing of a patient. Sometimes we may perform moxibustion, cupping, tui-na, gua-sha in conjunction with custom herbal formulations. In combination this medicine was designed to prevent and treat the whole spectrum of ailments including:

•    Low Fertility

•    Immune Weakness & Immune System disorders (including Asthma, Allergies and Skin problems)

•    Hormonal Imbalances (including various Endocrine disorder, Acne, PMS and Menopausal symptoms)

•    Stress and Anxiety

•    Insomnia

•    Depression

•    Digestive disorders

•    Cravings and Addictions

•    Fatigue

•    and of course - Chronic Pain

​Other conditions we have successfully treated 

 

WHAT IS A TYPICAL VISIT LIKE?

The length of each session may vary depending on the complexity of the illness. Your first visit may be 60-90 minutes. It will include a comprehensive initial physical exam, detailed review of the health history, a consultation with the physician and formulation of the treatment plan tailored to your specific health needs. Finally, the session will conclude with an acupuncture treatment.

All follow up visits will be shorter and will include physician evaluation of any changes and improvements in your health, a consultation where you can discuss any additional concerns you might have with your physician; and will conclude with an acupuncture treatment. This visit will typically take 30-45 minutes.

 

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?

It highly recommended eating a light meal before your treatment, but do not overeat. Hydrate, drink sufficient amount of water.  An acupuncture treatment doesn't only focus on treating your primary health concern, but also detoxifies your body. Staying well hydrated will help to move toxins through your kidneys and intestines and out of the body.

Try to wear comfortable clothes, a gown and proper draping will be provided for you if necessary.

Feel free to ask questions or discuss any concerns and with your physician to optimize your healing experience.

Please show up on time.

 

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?

Most patients feel extremely relaxed after their acupuncture treatment.  Many patients report improvement in their sleep and overall stress management after only a few treatments.  Some patients may feel slight soreness from treatment, which occurs if the patient is moving while the needles are still in or sometimes if the patient is under high stress, in pain, or dehydrated. 

 

HOW MANY TREATMENTS DOES IT TAKE?

Every individual has a unique response to the treatment which depends on a variety of factors, including how long you’ve had your condition, the severity of your symptoms, lifestyle, medical history, and age. Based on all the factors mentioned, the physician will determine how many treatments may be necessary in your specific case. Most conditions require an average of 6-12 treatments on a weekly basis, while others will notice an immediate improvement in their health.  Acupuncture tends to have a cumulative effect and may require several visits, before you notice the improvement of your symptoms. 

We make every effort to help you address your health concern and achieve your goals quickly and effectively.  We urge you to make a commitment to your treatment plan.  We will closely monitor your progress and communicate clearly any changes in your condition.

 

DO YOU OFFER HERBAL REMEDIES?

Yes, we use an extensive Chinese herbal pharmacy that consists primarily of patent herbal formulas that comes as granulated capsules or tablets, we can also special order herbal teas, the most potent form of herbal administration used for sever or acute conditions.  Individual herbs are combined in order to enhance their actions and effects customized to address imbalances of your body.  The clinic offers customized herbal blends that can be delivered to your door. Moreover, you have an option of ordering refills online in the comfort of your home.

 

IS IT SAFE FOR THE CHILDREN?

Yes. For children under the age of eight we offer Acupressure, Cupping, Gua sha or Tui Na (Oriental bodywork). Children over eight are compliant enough to receive acupuncture. The physician and the parent will determine the appropriate technique according to the health concern.

 

IS IT COVERED BY INSURANCE?

Most of the major insurance carriers provide coverage for acupuncture and few other modalities. We are currently an out-of-network provider and can bill your insurance company directly if your policy has out-of-network coverage or provide a Superbill if you wish to do so yourself. We highly recommend that you check your acupuncture benefits prior to the appointment. If you have a question about how to do this, call us at 323.422.6563 and we will be happy to help you verify your benefits.

Click here to Contact Us

 

IS IT EXPENSIVE?

If you don’t have insurance we offer a sliding scale fee schedule with several discounts (e.g. children and seniors) and promotional offers to our facebook page fans and our Wellness Club members via email. Remember, the efficiency of acupuncture treatments depends greatly on the continuous treatment regimen and your commitment to your health and wellbeing.

Click here for more information about our prices

 

WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT ARE ACCEPTED?

We accept cash, checks, Visa, Mastercard.

 

HOW DOES DAMIR MALIKOV ACUPUNCTURE STAND OUT?

• We have a vast experience in both traditional Eastern and conventional Western medicines’ and the ability to integrate them.

• We present a comprehensive diagnosis and clearly and honestly communicate with you.

• We are passionate about our work and are committed to the best quality of care we can provide.

• We take our time to listen to whatever concerns you may have.

• We will answer all of your questions and educate you on how to improve your health.

• If you wish, you may speak with Damir, the chief physician at Acupuncture & Natural Medicine, directly about your needs.

• Each treatment is personalized to your unique individual needs.

• At NO Charge we may give you nutritional counseling, cupping, moxibustion or bio-energy attunement when you get your acupuncture treatments.

• All of our herbs are “Good Manufacturing Practices” certified, safe and effective.

• We offer flexible appointment scheduling: now open in the evenings and on Saturdays!

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Click here to find out our office hours