Q: WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?

A: Acupuncture is an ancient system for regulating and balancing bodily functions to relieve pain, treat disease and promote well-being. This is done by inserting needles and applying heat (moxibustion), pressure or electrical stimulation at very precise acupuncture points.

The first descriptions of acupuncture in ancient Chinese literature occurred around 2500 BC. Acupuncture was introduced to other Asian countries around 1000 AD, to Europe around 1700, and to the U.S. in 1972 following President Nixon’s trip to China. The estimated prevalence of use for acupuncture in 1994 was 0.4% of the U.S. population (approx. 1 million people). See our History section for more information.

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Q: WHO IS QUALIFIED TO PRACTICE ACUPUNCTURE?

A: In China, acupuncturists receive training which is comparable to MDs. After earning their medical degree and completing a residency, they have the same title, privileges and legal standing as MDs. In the United States, the regulation and licensing of acupuncture varies from state to state. In many states, MDs, DCs and DOs are allowed to call themselves “acupuncturists” with a minimal amount of training, anywhere from 0 to 200 hours. However, to become a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.) one must complete several thousand hours of training specifically in acupuncture and Chinese medicine. In Virginia, all L.Ac.’s are licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine.

Matthew Miller, MB (China), L.Ac, the chief practitioner in our clinic, is a licensed acupuncturist who received his training in China, where he lived for nine years. He earned his Bachelor of Medicine degree from the Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, specializing in acupuncture and Chinese medical massage. Matthew also teaches T’ai Chi Ch’uan at Mind Body Studio in Lynchburg, VA.

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