Search Acupuncture Today

Lili

Does the mere mention of mosquitoes strike fear, anxiety or loathing? Have you ever been drifting off to sleep only to hear that high-pitched buzz and leap into action, scanning the room with superhero-like focus? But what if mosquitoes are telling us something through where they land and bite us?…

Acupuncture continues to occupy a unique place in healthcare: an ancient therapy with a rapidly expanding scientific basis. In the U.S., acupuncture is increasingly integrated into hospitals, VA centers, oncology clinics, and rehabilitation facilities, yet barriers remain – particularly in reimbursement and recognition by biomedical colleagues. One way forward is…

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality, with clinical management complicated by chemotherapy resistance and toxic effects such as bone marrow suppression and immunosuppression. Electroacupuncture (EA) has emerged as a promising adjunct, with evidence supporting its role in modulating immunity and protecting bone marrow function during…

A modern herbal formula for Lyme disease must be cognizant of a more complex clinical landscape, addressing both the pathogen and the underlying constitutional shortcomings that facilitate chronic infection. And of course, treating Lyme disease is not just about killing a microbe; it is also about restoring balance to a…

A new year is around the corner and many acupuncturists are looking to boost their practices. One of the most common questions I get is: “Do I need to be credentialed to bill insurance, and what are the best plans to join?” This is a loaded question – but one…

As an acupuncturist, you are likely aware of the benefits of receiving Chinese medical care throughout one’s oncology journey. The benefits are numerous, but seldom do I see commentary on the critical need for continued care on the other side of one’s cancer treatment – once they are deemed “NED”…

Pacific College of Health and Science has signed an agreement with Southern California University of Health Sciences (Whittier, Calif.) whereby Pacific College’s San Diego and Chicago campuses – including students, faculty, staff, and academic programs – will join SCU effective May 2026, pending regulatory approval. PCHS will continue to operate…

The VA's external provider scheduling (EPS) program streamlines the entire scheduling process by making your clinical calendar available to VA community care coordinators directly. By allowing VA community care coordinators direct access to your clinical calendar, it eliminates the burdensome back-and-forth between sending faxes, contacting veterans, and faxing back appointment…

Each year, ICD-10-CM is updated on Oct. 1. Code changes are based on date of service, not the claim submission date. Services before Oct. 1 use old codes; services on/after Oct. 1 must use the new codes. While no changes affect the common pain codes most frequently used by acupuncturists,…

As the healthcare industry rapidly evolves, a growing number of acupuncturists who traditionally have used a fee-for-service payment model are investigating novel practice structures, such as concierge and direct-pay care models. What are the legal requirements specific to these practice models, particularly as they relate to HIPAA?

What do we do when a patient of ours finds themselves homebound due to injury, illness, incapacitation from surgery or otherwise? While treating patients in their home or residence may be a new experience, with a few guidelines you can offer home visits safely and effectively. We may be asked…

Whether you accept it, avoid it or live somewhere in between, insurance coverage has become a defining issue for our profession. Patients increasingly expect to use their benefits, practitioners want to be compensated fairly for their time and expertise, and the system itself remains – at best – fragmented. The…

While the formation of erythema and ecchymosis is an anticipated skin response to cupping therapy, the appearance of post-treatment vesicles remains less discussed in clinical literature. This article presents a case study of vesicle formation following cupping therapy, explores underlying pathophysiology, and offers management guidelines to support practitioners in addressing…

This research highlight from the Journal of Inflammation Research focuses on a study investigating the effects of fire needling (FN) acupuncture on pain relief and cartilage protection in rats with knee osteoarthritis. The study provides a scientific basis for a traditional technique by analyzing its effects on macrophage polarization and…

In recent years, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have surged in popularity, hailed in mainstream medicine as a “safe and effective” solution for diabetes and weight management. But behind the glossy marketing and pharmaceutical assurances of these weekly injections lurks an underrecognized and potentially severe optic complication. Understanding this emerging…

Paul Magee is the new chair of the American Society of Acupuncturists, assuming the role effective Sept. 1, 2025, with Dr. Olivia Hsu Friedman transitioning to immediate past chair and remaining on the ASA board in the coming year “to help ensure a smooth and successful leadership handoff.” Paul is…

Linda

Preparing for your acupuncture board exams doesn’t have to be a long, exhausting marathon. This article outlines proven strategies to help you study smarter, maintain momentum, and avoid burnout so you can pass your exams efficiently and start your practice sooner. Whether you prefer an accelerated course or a steady…

Paul