What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the oldest continuously practiced medical systems in the world, with written records dating back over two thousand years. Unlike modern Western medicine, which often focuses on symptoms, TCM treats the individual as a whole—recognizing the body, mind, and spirit as interconnected parts of a dynamic system.
At the heart of TCM is the concept of qi (pronounced chee)—the vital life energy that flows through the body along pathways called meridians. These meridians act like rivers, carrying nourishing energy to tissues and organs. When the flow of qi becomes blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to physical, emotional, or spiritual illness.
Acupuncture is one of the core therapies of TCM. Fine, sterile needles are gently inserted at specific points on the meridians to regulate the flow of qi, restore balance, and stimulate the body’s natural healing response.
In addition to acupuncture, TCM practitioners may use:
- Chinese Herbal Medicine
- Nutritional and Dietary Guidance
- Movement Therapy (e.g., Tai Chi, Qi Gong)
- Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
Choosing a Qualified Practitioner
It’s essential to seek care from a certified professional. A qualified TCM practitioner should be board-certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)—the gold standard for acupuncture and herbal medicine training. Certification indicates that the practitioner has earned a four-year Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and passed rigorous national board exams.
WHAT CONDITIONS DOES ACUPUNCTURE HELP?
Acupuncture can be used to promote general health and well-being as well as help with specific conditions:
- Digestive disorders: indigestion, reflux, nausea, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhea, colitis
- Ear, nose, mouth and throat disorders: toothaches, laryngitis, canker sores, ringing in the ears, sore throat, TMJ
- Respiratory disorders: sinusitis, bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, skin rashes, allergies
- Circulation disorders: leg swelling, cold extremities
- Urinary and gynecological disorders: urinary incontinence, PMS, infertility, symptoms of menopause, irregular periods, painful periods, heavy bleeding, endometriosis, fibroids
- Muscular disorders: neck pain, back pain, knee pain, sciatica, frozen shoulder, bursitis and tendonitis, arthritis, sprains, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, tennis elbow; can also aid with rehabilitation for healing fractures, joint injuries and chronic pain
- Neurological disorders: headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, trigeminal neuralgia, vertigo, pain from shingles, peripheral neuropathy
- Psycho-emotional disorders: stress and tension, anxiety, depression, insomnia
- Relief of symptoms related to cancer treatments: including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy
- Autoimmune Conditions: MS, Hashimoto’s disease, thyroid issues, celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus
- Fertility Support: natural fertility care, support to IUI/IVF, chronic miscarriage, impotence, low sperm count, low motility
- Substance abuse and addictions: smoking cessation, alcohol & drug addiction
- And many more conditions…
Acupuncture can also be used with regular medical treatments to alleviate symptoms of many other conditions.
WHAT TYPE OF TRAINING DO YOU HAVE?
Emily Liburdi, Dipl. OM, MSTOM, L.Ac, holds a Bachelor of Science from Wayne State University and a four-year master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the highly accredited Pacific College of Health and Science in Chicago, Illinois. Her education included thousands of hours of academic coursework, hands-on clinical training, and supervised internships in both acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.
After successfully passing rigorous national board exams, Emily earned certification from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)—the gold standard for acupuncture education and licensure in the United States.
Most people are surprised to learn that Licensed Acupuncturists complete years of graduate-level education, comparable in length to Western medical training. Acupuncture is both a medical theory and a healing art that requires a deep understanding of the body as an interconnected whole—not just treating symptoms, but addressing root imbalances.
With thousands of treatments provided across a wide range of conditions, Emily brings not only advanced training but also years of practical experience. It’s important to note that Michigan does not currently have strict regulations for acupuncture, meaning some may practice with only minimal training. For your safety and best results, always seek care from a Board-Certified NCCAOM Licensed Acupuncturist.
ACUPUNCTURE VS DRY NEEDLING, WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?
The short answer: Acupuncture is dry needling—but dry needling is not acupuncture.
Dry needling is just one of many techniques acupuncturists are trained in. However, the biggest difference lies in education and scope.
Acupuncturists complete a rigorous program totaling around 8 years of education, including a graduate-level Master’s degree in Acupuncture or Traditional Chinese Medicine. They must also pass extensive board exams and maintain licensure with ongoing education—at least 60 continuing education credits every 4 years (the equivalent of an Associate’s degree).
In contrast, those offering “dry needling” may have only completed a short weekend workshop with minimal clinical supervision.
Another important distinction:
Acupuncture is grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a system that has evolved over thousands of years. TCM views the body as an interconnected whole and aims to treat the root of imbalance—not just the symptom.
While different names and trendy rebrandings may emerge, it’s important for the public to do their research. For safe, effective treatment backed by comprehensive training, look for a practitioner who is NCCAOM Board Certified. This designation ensures a national standard of education, examination, and clinical competency.
To find a nationally certified acupuncturist, visit the NCCAOM website: www.nccaom.org
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
The number of treatments varies from person to person. Some conditions respond quickly, requiring just 4–6 weekly sessions, while others may benefit from a longer course of care—often 10–12 treatments spaced weekly or monthly. Acute issues typically improve faster, whereas chronic conditions may take more time to resolve. During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs and health goals.
DOES IT HURT?
Most people are surprised at how comfortable acupuncture can be. The needles are extremely thin—much finer than those used for injections—and many patients feel little to no pain when they are inserted. You might notice a dull ache, heaviness, warmth, or a tingling sensation at the needle site. This is called “de qi” and is a normal, therapeutic response. Many people find the treatment deeply relaxing and even fall asleep during their session.
Do You Reuse the Needles?
No—acupuncture needles are never reused. Each needle is sterile, single-use, and disposable, ensuring the highest standard of safety and eliminating any risk of cross-contamination or infection.
How Long Do the Needles Stay In?
Acupuncture needles are typically retained in place for 15 to 40 minutes, depending on your individual condition and treatment plan.
Does Insurance Cover Acupuncture?
Most health insurance plans in Michigan do not cover acupuncture. All services are self-pay and paid prior to treatment.
We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to confirm if you have acupuncture reimbursement benefits. Many Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) do offer coverage for acupuncture services.
We’re happy to provide detailed receipts to help you submit claims for potential reimbursement.
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please provide at least 48 hours advance notice. You may leave a message on our after-hours voicemail if you call outside office hours.
Giving us advance notice allows patients on our waitlist to be offered your appointment slot.
Please Note:
Missed appointments without prior notice are subject to the appointment fee of $50.00
Cancellations or reschedules made less than 48 hours before your appointment are also subject to this fee.
