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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

There are many approaches to contemporary formula creation shaped by factors such as traditional knowledge, clinical insights and modern research. In this piece, I’d like to share one such experience, developed in response to the growing need of patients struggling with Lyme disease.

The stomach, known as “The Official of Rotting and Ripening Food and Drink,” with its paired official, the spleen, represents the earth element within us. I discussed the Stomach Official in detail in the June 2017 issue, including its manifestations at the physical, mental and spirit levels. In the October…

Facial movements are essential for communication, expression and function. But when these movements become involuntary, they can lead to conditions that are not only physically uncomfortable, but also socially and emotionally distressing. Today, we’re taking a closer look at three common facial motor disorders – blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm and facial…

A new randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Network Open provides evidence that could help influence Medicare’s coverage decisions for acupuncture (and more importantly, acupuncturists). The trial was conducted “[in] response to a call by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to inform a national-coverage determination for Medicare reimbursement…

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is rolling out an important new tool to improve access to integrative care for our valued U.S. veterans: external provider scheduling (EPS). This cloud-based technology enables VA schedulers to book approved appointments directly into providers’ scheduling systems – at no cost to practitioners. For…

Anna

Natural skincare is an increasingly popular option as more information comes to light regarding chemicals in various daily-use products. For seniors, choosing healthy options is vital to maintain quality of life. Informing cosmetic acupuncture patients about how to choose skincare products can improve treatment outcomes and overall health.

To explore the mechanisms of scalp acupuncture, I reviewed objective studies on brain function changes following scalp and body acupuncture treatments. Using functional MRI (fMRI) as objective evidence, it was found that several clinical research studies and meta-analyses have provided valuable insights.

MRI is currently the gold standard for identifying radicular pathology in the upper and lower extremities. Unfortunately, MR imaging requires preauthorization, which isn’t easy to obtain. The following brings history and observation to the forefront of radicular diagnostics. Each factor listed can significantly increase the clinician’s ability to diagnose radiculopathies.

In 1997, the World Health Organization and the National Institutes of Health convened a multiday conference on acupuncture to evaluate its clinical utilization and mechanisms of action. The resultant document recommended acupuncture for a wide variety of clinical issues; and also recommended acupuncture be taught in medical schools and brought…