Sally Rappeport

Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs

THE BASICS – Acupuncture and Herbs

Acupuncture and herbal medicine are incredible tools for healing the body. While the principles of Chinese medicine are unfamiliar to many, they can be used successfully to treat conditions affecting all of us. Unlike Western medicine, Chinese medicine strengthens the body’s own resources and helps to resolve many medical problems, particularly chronic ones. Acupuncture can shift energetic blockages that cause pain. These blockages may occur as a result of stress, physical or emotional trauma or a combination of all three. The acupuncturist uses tiny needles to balance the energetic pathways of the body, also known as meridians, resulting in relief of pain and improvement in the flow of energy through these channels. Additional benefits of treatment include a greater connection to one’s body and an overall sense of wellbeing.

FAQs

What safety procedures are being implemented during the pandemic?

During the worst of the pandemic I was careful to use masks all the time.  Now that the numbers have remained much lower in Columbia County, I do not always wear a mask. However, in general in medicine, infectious disease protocol involves Universal Precautions – the assumption that everyone is infected.  Therefore, I will be ask you to comply with the following:
  1. For most new patients I will do a telemedicine initial visit.  I do make exceptions for upstate patients, and you can have acupuncture during a slightly longer initial visit in person. When you schedule a telemedicine initial visit, you will get a link to an app that you can use on your computer or phone. You can schedule both the initial telemedicine intake and your first acupuncture session on the website, as long as the initial telemedicine comes first.
  2.  If there is any question that you have been exposed or you have mild symptoms, I will ask you to send me photos of your tongue both the top and bottom for each appointment. If possible take the photo outside in natural light or by a window. I prefer this so you can keep a mask on while you’re here.
  3. Masks are no longer required, but I’m happy to wear one if you’re more comfortable.  In Philmont, the numbers remain low, but if you’re arriving from the city, I will be more comfortable if we both wear masks.
  4. When you enter the office, it is helpful that you wash your hands immediately.
  5. Please try your best to be on time so there is less crossing paths between patients.
  6. I have installed a HEPA air filter in the treatment room.  It is on at all times.
  7.  If you have a fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose or you’re sneezing, have lost your sense of taste or smell, or have acute digestive issues, email sally@sallyrappeport.com or text me at 917-208-4730 as soon as possible.
  8. For herb patients, I will text you when your herbs are ready (like I did pre-COVID), and leave them for you on the downstairs porch or mail them to you. If you’re quarantined, I will do my best to drop them off or ask if you can send someone to pick them up.
  9. I prefer contactless payments going forward. The systems that are easiest to use are Venmo, Zelle or PayPal. You can find me on Venmo @Sally-Rappeport by my name with my business card instead of a photo. The cell code is x4730.  Zelle and PayPal work with sally@sallyrappeport.com (please send as friend to avoid fees).

If you have any further questions, please contact me at sally@sallyrappeport.com

How many treatments will I need?

Acupuncture tends to have a cumulative effect. Several treatments are recommended fairly close together, usually weekly or biweekly. Often less frequent visits can be effective once the condition begins to improve. In gynecological conditions, treatments are most effective in conjunction with the timing of the menstrual cycle

What kind of lifestyle changes are involved?

For complex conditions, patients often need to become involved in lifestyle changes — needles and herbs are not always enough! I work with patients at their own pace, supporting their efforts to achieve a healthier lifestyle. This often involves a shift in eating habits, sleep patterns and exercise as well as incorporating stress-reduction techniques.

An extensive part of Chinese medicine involves dietary therapy. I will make recommendations to you types of foods to eat as well as how to prepare them. There is no ideal that works for everyone. These choices will enable you to support your health in the best way possible.

For musculoskeletal conditions, I suggest exercises or stretches to support the treatment’s effectiveness. If necessary, I recommend more extensive support from a physical therapist or other practitioner.

How do I take the herbs?

Herbs come in many different forms that differ considerably in price. My recommendations vary depending on what is best for your situation.

  • Granules involve simply adding boiling water. These are usually taken two times per day.  More detailed instructions will come with your first herb prescription. In general, I will give you a 1 gram scoop.  4 scoops =  approximately 1 teaspoon.
  • Pills, tinctures and tablets are usually taken three times per day.

The taste and aroma of Chinese herbs may take some getting used to. Herbs can be followed by another beverage to help with this; brushing your teeth after is also helpful. I recommend taking all herbs on an empty stomach unless you  have frequent indigestion or nausea and then take the herbs with food. I will give clear written directions with every prescription.

Where do I get the herbs?

I have a small granular pharmacy in the office.  I am able to provide most patients with formulas from what I have in stock.  In addition, I have some tablets, pills, tinctures and topical preparations in the office as well as some nutritional supplements. Other herbs can be special ordered for pick up at the office.

Other questions:

Often questions arise during the process of treatment; feel free to contact me at anytime by email, text or phone.