Resources
For Practitioners
For Patients & Public
Resources for Practitioners
New Practitioners
Welcome to a growing profession. The following resources are not exclusive or comprehensive and are provided as general guidance.
Professional Liability Insurance
Even before you get licensed, you can get postgraduate/pre-license liability insurance that covers you when you are assisting or volunteering. The ASA has partnered with CM&F. They offer a combined policy that covers you and your location.
Location Liability Insurance
If your professional liability does not cover your locations.
Open a business bank account
This will be required for many insurance programs, contracting jobs, or employment. Use it to pay for business expenses.
Medicare News
-
UPDATED!! WAEMA Legislative Alert! RE: 2SHB 1039 Concerning physical therapists performing intramuscular needling! Bill passed House of Representatives 93/1 and is moving to Senate Health Care Committee. We need your help!
Hi All, The PT intramuscular or dry needling bill, 2SHB 1039 passed out of the House of...
-
WAEMA Legislative Alert for 2SHB 1039 Concerning physical therapists performing intramuscular needling has a public hearing on Senate Health Care Committee on March 14th at 8 am. We need your help!
Hi All, The “Physical Therapists Dry Needle” bill passed out of the House of Representatives and...
-
Thank you for your support to amend 2SHB 1039 – Concerning physical therapists performing intramuscular needling!
Your calls to state legislators made a huge difference at the public hearing in the Senate Health...
-
OAA President re: OCOM closure
Click HERE to see message from OCOM President - Phil Lundberg.
Setting Up a Business
Select a Business Type
Sole proprietorship doing business as (DBA) your business name, partnership, limited liability company, or corporation.
Apply for state, city, and or county business permits
It is often required to post these in a public area of the clinic.
Apply for a free EIN (tax ID number)
This must be done before registering your business for taxes or completing a W2 or W9 for contracting work.
Register your business for taxes
This includes state, city, and county. This can be done in conjunction with applying for permits and tax exemption if you are going to resell items.
Register with CAQH
or other third-party verifier of licensure and insurance coverage.
Consider accounting software
such as QuickBooks, which can pull data directly from bank account and credit cards.
Consider management software
such as Jane or Unified Practice, which can house all patient data and medical encounters on a secure cloud. Many packages offer scheduling, billing, and forms.
Business Forms
while many management software packages, form are standard, such as informed consent, practice policies, Agreement, and signature on file for filing insurance claims on behalf of patient.
Additional Resources
Teaching Resources for Practitioners
Become a National Provider
Want to teach? Consider becoming a Professional Development Activity (PDA) provider for NCCAOM. Visit here for more information.
Some PDA Provider Benefits
Represent the profession, use the NCCAOM PDA Provider Digital Badge, enjoy approved course advertising opportunities, and more! Visit here for more information.
Education Resources for Practitioners
Acupuncture Doctoral Programs
Ready for the next step in your career and want to search various programs by state, language, and focus? Visit here for more information.
Education Events
Visit the education opportunities section for the latest advertised local and national PDA or CEU events.
Herbal Medicine for Practitioners
Introduction to Chinese Herbs
Visit this page to learn about Chinese herb history, herbal pharmacology, single herbs, and formulas.
Herbal Medicine Resources
Visit this area for more information on Herbal medicine regulation and resources.
Resources for Patients & the Public
Medical Practice Act and Scope
Understanding Acupuncture Medical Practice Acts and Scopes of Practice in the United States
Acupuncture, an ancient healing practice originating from traditional Chinese medicine, has gained popularity in the United States as an integrative component of the U.S. healthcare system or alternative to mainstream medicine. To ensure the safe and effective delivery of acupuncture services, each state in the U.S. has established specific regulations known as Medical Practice Acts. These acts define the legal framework within which acupuncturists can practice, outlining their scope of practice and setting guidelines for licensure, education, and patient care. In this article, we will delve into the general state acupuncture Medical Practice Acts and Scopes of Practice to help you understand the regulatory landscape surrounding acupuncture in the U.S.
What are Medical Practice Acts?
Medical Practice Acts refer to state laws that govern the practice of medicine, including acupuncture. These acts are designed to protect public health and safety by ensuring that healthcare practitioners meet specific standards of education, training, and ethical conduct. They establish the legal requirements for licensing and outline the scope of practice for various healthcare professions, including acupuncturists.
Medicare & Health News
-
UPDATED!! WAEMA Legislative Alert! RE: 2SHB 1039 Concerning physical therapists performing intramuscular needling! Bill passed House of Representatives 93/1 and is moving to Senate Health Care Committee. We need your help!
Hi All, The PT intramuscular or dry needling bill, 2SHB 1039 passed out of the House of...
-
WAEMA Legislative Alert for 2SHB 1039 Concerning physical therapists performing intramuscular needling has a public hearing on Senate Health Care Committee on March 14th at 8 am. We need your help!
Hi All, The “Physical Therapists Dry Needle” bill passed out of the House of Representatives and...
-
Thank you for your support to amend 2SHB 1039 – Concerning physical therapists performing intramuscular needling!
Your calls to state legislators made a huge difference at the public hearing in the Senate Health...
-
OAA President re: OCOM closure
Click HERE to see message from OCOM President - Phil Lundberg.
Acupuncture Scope of Practice
The scope of practice for acupuncturists varies slightly from state to state. However, there are certain core elements that are commonly included in the scope of practice for licensed acupuncturists across the United States. These typically encompass the following:
- Diagnosis and Assessment: Acupuncturists are trained to conduct thorough patient assessments, including evaluating medical history, physical examination, and assessing the patient’s energy imbalances or disruptions.
- Acupuncture Treatment: Acupuncturists are authorized to perform acupuncture techniques, which involve the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to promote balance and stimulate the body’s natural healing response.
- Adjunctive Techniques: In addition to acupuncture, licensed acupuncturists may use other complementary techniques such as cupping, moxibustion (heat therapy), herbal medicine, and lifestyle recommendations to support their patients’ overall well-being.
- Patient Education: Acupuncturists often play a crucial role in educating patients about healthy lifestyle practices, stress management, dietary modifications, and self-care techniques that can enhance the effectiveness of treatment and promote long-term wellness.
Licensure and Education
To practice acupuncture legally, acupuncturists must meet the licensing requirements set forth by their respective state’s Medical Practice Act. These requirements typically include completing an accredited acupuncture program, passing national board examinations, and obtaining a state license. The exact educational and training standards can vary from state to state, but they generally involve a comprehensive curriculum covering acupuncture theory, anatomy, physiology, diagnostics, and clinical training.
Importance of Medical Practice Acts
Medical Practice Acts provide a vital framework for ensuring the safety, competency, and accountability of acupuncturists. By setting clear guidelines and standards, these acts protect patients from unqualified practitioners and maintain the integrity of the profession. They also facilitate collaboration with other healthcare providers, ensuring that acupuncturists work within a broader healthcare system to provide holistic and integrated care to patients.
Understanding the Medical Practice Acts and Scopes of Practice is essential for both acupuncturists and patients seeking acupuncture services in the United States. By adhering to these regulations, licensed acupuncturists can provide safe and effective care while promoting the well-being of their patients. It is important to consult your state’s specific Medical Practice Act and seek treatment from licensed acupuncturists to ensure the highest standards of care and professionalism.
Exploring Acupuncture and Related Modalities: A Comprehensive Guide
Acupuncture, originating from Chinese medicine, has gained recognition and popularity in the U.S as an effective form of medicine. This article aims to provide a basic overview of acupuncture and related modalities commonly practiced in the field. We will explore the benefits, techniques, and applications of acupuncture, moxibustion, infrared heat lamp therapy, low light laser therapy, injection therapy, cupping, gua sha, tui na massage, and herbal medicine.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the core modality within the practice of Chinese medicine. It involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate blood movement, improve nerve conductivity, restore function, or enhance balance. Acupuncture is known to provide relief for a wide range of conditions, including pain management, stress reduction, fertility support, digestive disorders, and respiratory conditions. There is a range of acupuncture techniques, such as acupuncture with electric stimulation, bloodletting, and trigger therapy release. There is also a ranch of approaches such as meridians (peripheral nervous system), microsystems, scalp, post-stroke, bone needling, and nerve release. To determine the best course of action, Chinese medical acupuncturists will engage in basic questions and advanced assessment to establish a differential diagnosis. For more information on this aspect, see Chinese Medicine Theory (link to the that topic).
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is a technique often used in conjunction with acupuncture. It involves the burning of mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) near specific acupuncture points or areas of the body to promote healing and improve function. Moxibustion can be performed directly or indirectly, and it is particularly beneficial for conditions involving cold or stagnation.
Infrared Heat Lamp Therapy
Infrared heat lamp therapy utilizes special lamps that emit infrared radiation to penetrate the body’s tissues. This therapy can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with acupuncture. The gentle heat from the lamps helps promote circulation, relax muscles, and alleviate pain and inflammation.
Low Light Laser Therapy
Low light laser therapy, also known as cold laser therapy or photobiomodulation, involves the application of low-intensity lasers to specific points or areas of the body. This non-invasive treatment stimulates cellular activity, enhances tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and relieves pain. Low light laser therapy is commonly used for musculoskeletal conditions, wound healing, and dermatological issues.
Injection Therapy
Although this adjunct modality is part of accredited programs and included in textbooks, there is a required step to involve state pharmacy boards to determine acceptable agents that licensed acupuncturists can procure. In some states, licensed acupuncturists may have the scope to offer injection therapy as an adjunct to acupuncture treatment. This involves the injection of natural substances such as vitamins, homeopathic remedies, or herbal extracts into specific acupuncture points or affected areas. Injection therapy can provide targeted support for pain management, inflammation reduction, and tissue healing.
Cupping
Cupping involves placing special cups on the skin to create suction. This therapy helps promote blood flow, release tension, and alleviate muscle soreness. Cupping is often used for musculoskeletal conditions, respiratory issues, and detoxification.
Gua Sha
Gua sha is a technique that involves scraping the skin using a smooth-edged tool. This therapeutic scraping motion helps release stagnation, improve circulation, and relieve muscle tension. Gua sha is commonly utilized for pain management, immune support, and detoxification.
Tui Na Massage
Tui na is a form of Chinese therapeutic massage that combines various manual techniques and manipulation, including, kneading, stretching, and joint mobilization. Tui na helps promote circulation, relieve muscle tension, and address dysfunction. It is often used in conjunction with acupuncture for musculoskeletal issues, stress reduction, and overall wellness.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine is an integral component of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves the use of natural substances, such as plants, minerals, and animal products, to restore balance and support healing. Herbal prescriptions are tailored to individual needs and can be used internally or externally to address a wide range of conditions.
Resources for Policy Makers
Acupuncture Regulation
Forty-seven states (and the District of Columbia) have practice acts in place to define and regulate the practice of acupuncture. Of these 47 states, 22 states require National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) Board Certification to issue an acupuncture license while 26 states use NCCAOM examinations as at least a portion of the licensure requirements.
The NCCAOM is a not-for-profit organization in the United States that aims to “establish, assess, and promote recognized standards of competence and safety in acupuncture and Oriental medicine for the protection and benefit of the public.
Medicare Covered Acupuncture
Currently, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) covers acupuncture for chronic low back pain but licensed / qualified acupuncturists cannot directly submit claims to Medicare. While the licensed / qualified acupuncturist medical service is recognized, they are not considered qualified Medicare providers.
H.R. 3133 – Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act of 2023 – will codify licensed / qualified acupuncturists as providers under Medicare who can work and bill independently as licensed / qualified acupuncturists.
Policies
- Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 – US Food and Drug Administration . Read Full Act
- FDA Industry Guidance on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Products and their Regulation by the Food and Drug Administration.
Read Full Article - Dietary Supplement and Non-Prescription Drug Act. United States Government Printing Office; Washington, DC, USA: 2006. Public Law 109–462.
- Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packaging, Labeling, or Holding Operations for Dietary Supplements: Final Rule. Read Here
Guidance
- Herb-Drug Interactions – Chen X.W., Sneed K.B., Pan S.Y., Cao C., Kanwar J.R., Chew H., Zhou F. Herb-drug interactions and mechanistic and clinical considerations. Curr. Drug Metab. 2012;13:640–651. doi: 10.2174/1389200211209050640.
- FDA on Botanical Drugs and Supplements – Read Here
Legislation News
-
UPDATED!! WAEMA Legislative Alert! RE: 2SHB 1039 Concerning physical therapists performing intramuscular needling! Bill passed House of Representatives 93/1 and is moving to Senate Health Care Committee. We need your help!
Hi All, The PT intramuscular or dry needling bill, 2SHB 1039 passed out of the House of...
-
WAEMA Legislative Alert for 2SHB 1039 Concerning physical therapists performing intramuscular needling has a public hearing on Senate Health Care Committee on March 14th at 8 am. We need your help!
Hi All, The “Physical Therapists Dry Needle” bill passed out of the House of Representatives and...
-
Thank you for your support to amend 2SHB 1039 – Concerning physical therapists performing intramuscular needling!
Your calls to state legislators made a huge difference at the public hearing in the Senate Health...
-
OAA President re: OCOM closure
Click HERE to see message from OCOM President - Phil Lundberg.
Additional Resources
Journals
Publications
Nierhaus T, Chang Y, Liu B, Shi X, Yi M, Witt CM, Pach D. Somatosensory Stimulation With XNKQ Acupuncture Modulates Functional Connectivity of Motor Areas. Front Neurosci. 2019 Mar 11;13:147. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00147. PMID: 30914909; PMCID: PMC6421982.
Read Full Article
Khan MNA, Ghafoor U, Yoo HR, Hong KS. Acupuncture enhances brain function in patients with mild cognitive impairment: evidence from a functional-near infrared spectroscopy study. Neural Regen Res. 2022 Aug;17(8):1850-1856. doi: 10.4103/1673-5374.332150. PMID: 35017448; PMCID: PMC8820726.
Read Full Article
Matos LC, Machado JP, Monteiro FJ, Greten HJ. Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapeutics: An Overview of the Basics and Clinical Applications. Healthcare (Basel). 2021 Mar 1;9(3):257. doi: 10.3390/healthcare9030257. PMID: 33804485; PMCID: PMC8000828.
Read Full Article
Acupuncture Practice in Military Medical Treatment Facilities
Establishes procedures to expand the availability and utilization of acupuncture as a non-pharmacologic therapy for acute and chronic pain as an essential element of the Military Health Service Pain Management Campaign, and guidance for implementing tiered acupuncture training, privileging, and documentation and to support the clinical practice of acupuncture by designated clinical staff throughout the Department of Defense, as a complement to existing pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapies. This guidance applies to all military medical treatment facilities and staff supporting the delivery of healthcare to beneficiaries. See Defense Health Agency Procedural Instruction. Acupuncture Practice in Military Medical Treatment Facilities. Found at https://www.health.mil/Reference-Center/DHA-Publications/2020/02/20/DHA-PI-6025-33
A Protocol of a Guideline to Establish the Evidence Ecosystem of Acupuncture
“Acupuncture clinical practice should be based on high-quality evidence, which could help in decision-making. Thus, acupuncture research should provide sufficient data to enable funders, reviewers, and steering committees to appraise the scientific and methodological rigor of the studies, and for the researchers to replicate and implement these studies.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization placed acupuncture on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and this therapy had been deemed safe and effective. Acupuncture is an important Chinese medicine treatment method suitable for a wide spectrum of diseases. More than 60,000 randomized controlled trials 6,000 systematic reviews, and 1,000 recommendations had been published, while some studies were published in top journals which promoted the use of acupuncture worldwide.”
See Wang Q, Li N, Li J, He Y, Li Y, Zhong D, Liu X, Fan J, Jin R, Kang D, Zhang Y. A Protocol of a Guideline to Establish the Evidence Ecosystem of Acupuncture. Front Med (Lausanne). 2022 Feb 15;8:711197. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2021.711197. PMID: 35252220; PMCID: PMC8896352.
Found at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8896352/
Frequently Asked Questions
What to look for in an acupuncturist?
When performed by a properly trained clinician, acupuncture is a safe, effective, and holistic form of care. Your experience with acupuncture may vary depending on the provider you choose. Finding a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac) will ensure your needs are met with the highest level of training and educational standards. Licensed Acupuncturists may be generalists or have areas of specialty. It is reasonable to ask about each provider’s training and if they have a particular area of focus in their practice. Licensed Acupuncturists are the only professionals who have completed nationally accredited training and have shown competency via nationally certified board examinations specific to acupuncture.
ACAOM Accredited School
The first step toward becoming a trained and licensed acupuncturist is graduation from an accredited school. Sanctioned by the United States Department of Education (USDE), the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) ensures that qualifying programs meet the educational standards established by Congress.1 The degree program of choice often includes options for master’s level and doctorate level degrees. The foundation of the curriculum is centered on traditional and modern (biomedical) applications of acupuncture diagnostic theory.
Master’s Degree
Within the United States, there are rigorous training standards to become a licensed acupuncturist. Most states require a three to five-year master’s degree from an accredited acupuncture school 1 and passage of standardized board exams 2 before licensure. A master’s may be attained in acupuncture a or Oriental medicine. b A master’s degree in Oriental medicine highlights practitioners who have completed additional training and course work in Chinese herbal medicine, above and beyond the standard acupuncture course curriculum. After passage of board examinations, acupuncturists are entitled to identify themselves as a Dipl. Ac. (Diplomate of Acupuncture) 3 or Dipl. O.M. (Diplomate of Oriental Medicine) 4 by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
NCCAOM Diplomate Standing
The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) provides national board certification for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine practitioners. To be eligible to take the NCCAOM exams, an applicant must have successfully completed a formal education in acupuncture or Oriental medicine through an accredited school. 1
Earning certification from the NCCAOM represents a significant professional achievement. NCCAOM certification makes an important statement about professional competence that is recognized by regulatory bodies, third-party payers, the profession, and the public.
Types of NCCAOM Certifications
- Acupuncture 3
- Three-year master’s program
- 1,905 hours/105 credits of didactic and clinical education.
- Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine 4
- Four-year master’s program in Oriental medicine.
- 2,625 hours/146 credits of didactic and clinic coursework in both acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine
- Certification in Chinese Herbology 5
- Four-year master’s program in Oriental medicine OR a master’s in acupuncture and a post-graduate Chinese Herbal Certificate recognized by ACAOM
- 450 hours of didactic instruction in herbs
- 210 hours of herbal clinical training
Licensing
Each state has its own licensing and educational requirements to practice as an acupuncturist. Currently, 46 states plus the District of Columbia, require NCCAOM certification 6 as a prerequisite for licensure. 6 Successful completion of the Clean Needle Technique course and examination administered by the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine is also needed. 7 Maintenance of an active license requires ongoing professional development activities (PDAs) or continuing education units (CEUs) towards renewal.
Continuing Education and Specialties
In addition to maintaining licensing requirements, many practitioners utilize continuing education to advance their studies in a specialized area. This may be through weekend seminars or full certificate programs. These programs include pediatrics, fertility, dermatology, sports medicine, and more.
When seeking out a licensed acupuncturist with expertise in a particular field, inquire about their credentials, training, and experience in the area. Often, you will find practitioners with a history of patient testimonials and a track record of successful outcomes.
Advanced Studies: Doctorate Degrees
The Doctorate of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) is a postgraduate degree and provides acupuncturists specialization within a particular field. c The DAOM entails advanced classes, clinical training, and research. It also prepares graduates for practice in integrative settings, such as hospitals, as well as academia. It is the highest level of training offered and the terminal degree in the field. 8 Currently, there are eleven accredited schools nationwide offering this level of training. 9
Following other allied health professions, such as physical therapy and pharmacy, several institutions have begun to offer an entry level or first professional doctoral degree: the Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM). 10-11 In addition to the aforementioned master’s degree curriculum, this program entails coursework that provides supplementary skills for practice in multidisciplinary settings and referral networks that support collaborative approaches to health care. 12
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a holistic treatment which incorporates the use of acupuncture, herbs, moxibustion, physical therapies, dietary and lifestyle guidance to restore balance to the body. It is not uncommon to incorporate acupuncture in conjunction with other forms of care. This may help to speed healing and rehabilitation after a health crisis, pain syndrome, or emotional trauma.
Acupuncture is a safe, effective and relaxing treatment for a variety of health conditions. The number of treatments you will need depends on your condition and treatment plan. While working to decrease your symptoms, acupuncture also frequently produces a feeling of well-being and deep relaxation.
What is an acupuncture treatment?
Your care is based on a medical diagnosis and a treatment plan developed during your initial clinical consultation. The assessment is based on medical history, presentation and onset of symptoms, as well as pulse and tongue diagnostics. After a diagnosis is made, the most appropriate and effective treatment plan will be chosen based on the diagnosis of a pattern or set of patterns. For example, five people might see an acupuncture practitioner all complaining of migraine headaches, however, each patient may be diagnosed with a completely different Chinese medical pattern. This pattern will be based on their main complaint and unique symptomatology.
What does acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture enjoys a high level of evidence for a variety of conditions. 13 Research into acupuncture as a medical treatment has grown exponentially in the past 20 years, increasing at twice the rate of research over other methods of care in biomedicine. 14
Over this period, there have been over 13,000 studies conducted in 60 countries, including hundreds of meta-analyses summarizing the results of thousands of human and animal studies. Acupuncture is recognized by medical experts as a viable intervention for a spectrum of conditions and is one of the most widely recommended treatments in the current landscape of medicine. 15
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is a recognized form of therapy that has its origins in ancient Chinese medicine. Current application of acupuncture clinically is performed using both historic understandings of its mechanisms and indications, and from modern, biomedical perspectives. From the biomedical viewpoint, acupuncture has been shown to have numerous mechanisms of action. Research into further mechanisms is on-going, but the neural pathways from the periphery, through the spinal cord, and to pain perception centers have been mapped and are thought to play a foundational role in acupuncture’s pain modulating effects. 16 Acupuncture is also well known to cause the release of numerous chemical mediators of pain such as endogenous opioids, ATP and adenosine, GABA, and substance P, and to affect the brain’s sensitivity to opioids. 17-18
When viewed from the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) paradigm, acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into acupoints to manipulate the functions of the body. It has been observed over the millennia that certain points on the body have identified functions, and different combinations of points can affect the body in specific ways. Classical Chinese medicine is based in the observation of nature, and how humans interact with and are affected by natural forces. 19 The early Chinese scholars studied how the body moved and functioned under numerous sets of conditions. They learned to apply acupuncture to help the body return to balance when, through natural influences or problematic dietary or lifestyle choices, individuals developed “disharmonies” or illnesses. Practitioners trained to apply acupuncture from the classical perspective utilize this ancient knowledge in the modern setting. They identify patterns of imbalance and are trained in the application of acupuncture as one tool in restoring health and harmony.
It is important to recognize that the system of medicine in which acupuncture developed is highly structured and complex. It is also elegant, and its genius is often missed in mainstream criticisms; those criticisms generally put forth by individuals who have not taken the time to study the profound body of material that has evolved over time. Chinese medicine looks at the body from the viewpoint of physiologic systems rather than individual parts, and so its treatments aim to balance complex sets of functions and restore health at the root of illness, rather than by fixing a single, broken piece. Licensed Acupuncturists are trained in this way of organizing human physiology, and have learned full treatment plans for restoring health.
What is herbal medicine?
Traditional Herbal Medicine utilizes ingredients from the animal, plant and mineral kingdoms to treat many different health conditions. All ingredients are collectively referred to as “herbs”. Each herb offers a variety of chemical constituents that have specific biological functions. Different parts of the plant (i.e. roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruit, seed and bark) can often perform different functions. When multiple ingredients are combined to make a formula, the sum of the chemical constituents is often more powerful and efficacious than the individual parts. 20
How does herbal medicine work?
When we ingest herbal medicines, the same way as food, we breakdown the herb and assimilate the chemistry in the herb. But instead of assimilating the nutrients, we assimilate the medicinal chemicals.
In some ways, herbs work similarly to many pharmaceutical preparations. In fact, some pharmaceutical medicines are based upon extractions from plants. For example, the malaria medicine quinine is extracted from the bark of the cinchona tree, and the pain medicine morphine is produced from the opium poppy.
However, herbal medicine differs from pharmaceuticals because it uses the complete form of the herb to ensure the balance of constituents within it, instead of just using a specific extraction or single chemical from the plant.
What does herbal medicine treat?
Traditional herbal medicine formulas address the root cause of a health condition, not just a symptom. They treat the body as a holistic system and facilitate the body’s own healing mechanisms. As such, they can be used to treat a variety of conditions including:
- Allergies
- Anxiety and Depression
- Arthritis
- Cold and Flu
- Chronic Fatigue
- Headaches and Migraines
- High Blood Pressure
- Infertility
- Menstrual Irregularities
- Pain
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Skin Issues
- Sports Related Injuries
Side Effects of Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine typically does not incur the unwanted side effects that are often seen in conventional pharmaceutical treatments. However, herbal medicine can be very potent and, if used incorrectly, can rarely cause serious adverse effects. Additionally, some herbs can affect how your body responds to prescription and over-the-counter medicines, either decreasing or increasing the effects of these medicines. In this way, it is very important to let your herbalist know what other drugs and supplements you are taking so they can advise or modify your formula to best avoid complications. Properly trained and certified herbalists are able to adapt herbal use to be safest for each patient.
Herbal Medicine Formulas
Herbal medicines formulas are sold as tablets, capsules, powders, teas, extracts, syrups, poultices, lotions, compresses, and fresh or dried plants. The form of your herbal medicine will depend upon your practitioner’s preferences, medical condition and sometimes, patient preferences.
Herbalists are trained to dispense remedies for specific conditions and symptoms and to determine how much should be taken and for how long. Herbs can be selected to address each person’s unique constitution and sensitivities in addition to their disease or symptoms. For this reason, many herbalists, especially those that utilize raw herbs, will meet with their patients every few weeks to adjust the formula ingredients to meet the changing needs of their patients, as they heal, or to address different symptoms if they appear. This makes herbal medicine extremely flexible and customizable during every step of the treatment time process.
What is Moxibustion, Cupping, Gua Sha, & Tui Na?
In addition to acupuncture, licensed acupuncturists also use moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, and/or tuina. These adjunctive therapies have been used for over 2000 years. They can be used alongside an acupuncture treatment or alone.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion involves heat therapy using the mugwort plant (Artemisia vulgaris or Artemisia argyi), also known as “moxa,” to stimulate acupoints. Moxibustion is used for treating many conditions. In a quantitative study of 50 years of bibliometric material, up to 364 types of diseases have been shown to be treated with moxibustion. Moxa is used for digestive, urinary, gynecological/obstetric and orthopedic issues. It has been shown to aid in pain reduction. Moxibustion can be done in a variety of methods – each with different thermal effects. When moxa is lit, it emits visible and infrared electromagnetic waves. This energy is absorbed by the body to promote blood circulation. 21-22
Cupping
Cupping therapy involves the use of a cup or a jar. The World Health Organization (Code 5.3.2) defines the cupping method as a “therapeutic method involving the application of suction by placing a vacuumed cup or jar onto the affected or any part of the body surface.” Cupping is used for many conditions from musculoskeletal pain to cardiovascular issues to early colds and flus. 23-24
Gua Sha
Gua sha is an instrument assisted manual therapy whereby the body surface is compressed with a smooth-edged tool. 25 This therapeutic process intentionally creates petechiae (tiny red or purple dots on the skin) and increases blood flow into the fascia. The “sha” or redness that is created can last up from one day to one week. 26 This technique increases blood flow to local tissues, helps the body activate a local healing response, and assists in the removal of toxins from the tissue (such as by-products of metabolism in areas with myofascial dysfunction). Gua sha has also been shown to reduce internal organ inflammation by upregulating heme-oxygenase-1. It has been shown to produce a four-fold increase in the surface tissue microcirculation, reduce inflammation and stimulate the immune system. Gua sha is used for many conditions ranging from asthma to musculoskeletal pain and spasms. 27
Tuina
Tuina is a school of Chinese manual bodywork therapy. Literally translated as “push” and “grasp,” it is used to promote blood flow, improve function, and enhance resistance to disease. Tuina involves different manipulation techniques for different conditions. 28 Similar to the other therapies described, tuina can be used to treat many types of conditions ranging from musculoskeletal pain to digestive disorders. 29 The use of herbal liniments and oils may be used by the practitioner, depending on the condition presented.
What is Dry Needling?
“Dry needling” has created a great deal of confusion in recent years, both among patients and healthcare providers. It is one of many names d that refer to a form of acupuncture utilized by Western medicine clinicians. The term was coined by Janet Travell, MD, and came into prominence during the early 1980s when discussed in her seminal text Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual. 30 It was used to distinguish from the implied “wet needling,” which is the injection of a fluid with a hypodermic needle. While a “dry needle” initially referred to an empty syringe, it has evolved to include monofilament/filiform 31 needles routinely used by acupuncturists. The latter of which is utilized in the modern application of “dry needling.” Acupuncture, by default, encompasses “dry needling,” and any suggested distinction, in actuality, exists largely in name.
The current interpretation of “dry needling” largely refers to an aggressive form of acupuncture entailing a piston-like motion of deep needling into tender areas in muscles known as trigger points. Many “dry needling” adherents, whether due to being genuinely misinformed or otherwise, suggest that it never occurred to ancient Chinese physicians to manipulate a needle in a piston-like motion or treat trigger points, utilizing the equivalent language of their time. In an attempt to distinguish it from “dry needling,” they unfortunately misrepresent acupuncture as being relegated to superficial or “energetic” needling based on a mystical paradigm. Neither the needling method, nor the concept of trigger points, is new or innovative. This is recognized by numerous clinicians and researchers, acknowledging the historical precedent set by acupuncture. 32-38 For instance, “The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic of Medicine” (Huang Di Nei Jing), dating back to between the 2nd century BC and 2nd century CE (Han Dynasty), describes this. The technique, hegu ci, is still used to treat musculoskeletal conditions. It is characterized by deep needling into muscles accompanied by partial retraction and reinsertion at varying angles, which is currently described as “fanning” or “coning.” 39 With regards to trigger points, in his 7th century CE work, “Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Gold” (Qian Jing Yao Fang), the famous physician, Sun Simiao, described ashi points. Ashi, which translates to “Ah, yes!” or “That’s it!” refers to points that are tender or painful upon local pressure and can produce radiating pain – hallmarks of trigger points. 40
These are just a couple of innumerable examples demonstrating acupuncture’s historicity and development over the course of more than 2000 years. Numerous styles and techniques of needling factor in several variables: depth, angle, intensity, frequency, proximity to the diseased/injured area, etc. 39 Acupuncturists are trained in both traditional and biomedical paradigms, evidenced by their educational requirements. In addition, numerous continuing education courses and certificate programs in orthopedic/sports medicine/trigger point acupuncture have been well established prior the recent emergence of “dry needling.” 41-42
For further information on this subject, please read Andy McIntyre’s article “Dry Needling is Acupuncture; but Acupuncture is not Dry Needling.”
How do I become licensed in Oregon?
To be eligible for an acupuncture license in Oregon, an applicant must have:
- Graduated from an acupuncture program that satisfies the standards of the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) or an equivalent accreditation body. Alternatively, the applicant may show adequate clinical acupuncture practice in the United States for five of the last seven years. See Oregon Administrative Rule 847-070-0016.
- Current certification in acupuncture by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
- English language proficiency.
- Note: NCCAOM Route 8 certification does not qualify for licensure in Oregon per OAR 847-070-0016.
Licensure
- Licenses are usually issued within one week after completion of the initial registration process.
- When your license is granted, you will receive a certificate of registration, a wallet license card and a formal engrossed license.
- Once granted, a license can be verified immediately through the Board’s license verification webpage.
How do I renew my Oregon license?
Online license renewal – https://omb.oregon.gov/Clients/ORMB/Private/OnlineServices/Login.aspx
What is the Oregon Medical Board (OMB)?
The mission of the Oregon Medical Board (OMB) is to protect the health, safety, and well-being of Oregon citizens by regulating the practice of medicine in a manner that promotes access to quality care. In addition to Acupuncturists (LAc), the OMB also licenses Medical Doctors (MD), Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Podiatric Physicians (DPM), and Physician Assistants (PA). The Board conducts investigations, imposes disciplinary action, and supports rehabilitation, education, and research to further its legislative mandate to protect the citizens of Oregon.
References
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- The NCCAOM Certification in Acupuncture. National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. http://www.nccaom.org/wp-content/uploads/pdf/Acupuncture%20Cert%20Brochure.pdf. Accessed January 18, 2019.
- The NCCAOM Certification in Oriental Medicine. National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. http://www.nccaom.org/wp-content/uploads/pdf/OM%20Certification%20Brochure.pdf. Accessed January 18, 2019.
- The NCCAOM Certification in Chinese Herbology. National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. http://www.nccaom.org/wp-content/uploads/pdf/CH%20Certification%20Brochure.pdf. Accessed January 22, 2019.
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- Standards and Criteria Manual: Postgraduate Doctoral [DAOM]. Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. https://acaom.org/resources/. Accessed January 18, 2019.
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- Transitional Doctorate for Acupuncture Graduates. Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. https://www.pacificcollege.edu/prospective/programs/online/transitional-doctorate. Accessed January 18, 2019.
- Doctorate of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (DACM). Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. https://www.pacificcollege.edu/prospective/programs/san-diego/medicine/doc. Accessed February 3, 2019.
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- Ma Y, Dong M, Zhou K, Mita C, Liu J, Wayne PM. Publication Trends in Acupuncture Research: A 20-Year Bibliometric Analysis Based on PubMed. Plos One. 2016;11(12). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0168123.
- Birch S, Lee MS, Alraek T, Kim T-H. Overview of Treatment Guidelines and Clinical Practical Guidelines That Recommend the Use of Acupuncture: A Bibliometric Analysis. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2018;24(8):752-769. doi:10.1089/acm.2018.0092.
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- Zhao Z-Q. Neural mechanism underlying acupuncture analgesia. Progress in Neurobiology. 2008;85(4):355-375. doi: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2008.05.004.
- Harris RE, Zubieta J-K, Scott DJ, Napadow V, Gracely RH, Clauw DJ. Traditional Chinese acupuncture and placebo (sham) acupuncture are differentiated by their effects on μ-opioid receptors (MORs). NeuroImage. 2009;47(3):1077-1085. doi:10.1016/j.neuroimage.2009.05.083.
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What is the ASA?
The American Society of Acupuncturists (ASA) is your primary national level professional association. It coordinates activities at the national level, including working with a lobbyist in Washington D.C. to represent the profession, holding national conventions, and offering national level opportunities for student and licensed practitioner involvement. http://www.asacu.org/.
What is CCAOM?
The Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM) is a 501(c)(6) voluntary membership association for acupuncture schools and programs in the U.S. Established in 1982, the Council’s primary mission is to advance AOM by promoting educational excellence in the field. Currently the Council consists of 53 acupuncture schools. As a requirement of membership, all of the Council’s member schools have obtained either full accreditation or accreditation candidacy status with the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM), the national organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit AOM schools and programs in the U.S. The Council administers a national needle safety course known as the Clean Needle Technique Course. http://www.ccaom.org/
Recommended reading: http://www.ccaom.org/downloads/PaperOfLixinHuang.pdf
What is ACAOM?
The Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) is the national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit Master’s-level programs in the acupuncture and Oriental medicine profession. As an independent body, ACAOM accredits first professional Master’s degree and professional Master’s level certificate and diploma programs in acupuncture and first professional Master’s degree and professional Master’s level certificate and diploma programs in Oriental medicine with a concentration in both acupuncture and herbal therapies. The Commission fosters excellence in acupuncture and Oriental medicine education by establishing policies and standards that govern the accreditation process for acupuncture and Oriental medicine programs. Currently, ACAOM has over 60 schools and colleges with accredited or candidacy status with the Commission. http://www.acaom.org
Recommended reading: http://www.ccaom.org/downloads/PaperOfLixinHuang.pdf
What is NCCAOM?
The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), was established in 1982 as a non-profit organization currently operating under Section 501(c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code. The mission of the NCCAOM is to establish, assess, and promote recognized standards of competence and safety in acupuncture and Oriental medicine for the protection and benefit of the public. There are currently over 14,000 active Diplomates practicing under NCCAOM certifications in Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Chinese Herbology and Asian Bodywork Therapy. In year 2017, NCCAOM celebrated its 35th anniversary. https://www.nccaom.org/about-us/