Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the website of Jesse S Phelps. I am thrilled to have you consider Acupuncture and Complimentary medicine as a treatment option. Here you will find information on services offered and what to expect during your visits.

What is involved in a Treatment?

During your initial visit, information will be gathered about your medical/family history, chief complaints, lifestyle and physical assessments; I may also order X rays, MRI, lab testing or refer to a specialist when necessary. This is a time for your concerns to be heard and understood in the context of your particular life situation. From this information the practitioner determines a diagnosis and treatment plan, while taking into account your genetic, physical and mental well-being. Treatment plans will vary based upon severity of condition, length of time, individual constitution and your goals.

Your initial visit will last around 1 1/2 hours. It is helpful to have the initial paperwork filled out before arrival. Please wear loose fitting clothes and eat within a few hours before your appointment.

What is Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine?

The theory and practice of acupuncture is based on Oriental Medicine, a comprehensive natural health care system that has been used in Asia for thousands of years to preserve health, diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. The general theory of acupuncture is that proper physiological function and health depend on the circulation of nutrients, substances and energy called Qi (pronounced chee) through a network of pathways or meridians. These meridians have direct correlation to muscle, nerve and lymphatic distribution. This network connects every organ and part of the body, providing balance, regulation and coordination of physiological processes.

Pain and illness result when the flow of Qi through the body is disrupted or blocked by many things, including disease, pathogens, trauma/injuries, and medication (side effects), as well as lifestyle factors such as overwork, poor diet, emotions, lack of rest and stress.

Stimulation of acupuncture points helps to restore the proper physiological function of the central nervous system, digestive, hormonal and musculoskeletal systems. The acupuncturist uses a complex system of diagnostic methods that take into consideration the person as a whole, discerning the body’s pattern of disharmony rather than isolated symptoms. The aim is not only to eliminate or alleviate symptoms, but more importantly to treat the underlying cause, increase the ability to function and improve quality of life.

Herbal Therapy

In the course of your treatment Chinese herbal medicine may be prescribed. They may be dispensed as raw herbs or in pills, capsules, granules, or tinctures which make them easier to ingest. Herbal formulas can treat a wide variety of symptoms while stimulating the body’s natural healing process.

In California, acupuncturists are the only licensed health care professionals who are required to be trained and tested for competency in prescribing herbal medicines. California-approved acupuncture schools offer a minimum of 500 classroom hours of instruction in traditional Oriental herbology in addition to clinical training. Chinese herbal medicine has been practiced for centuries and has the greatest potential for results when prescribed by a trained professional who recognizes the benefits and the risks. All herbal medicine distributed by Jesse Phelps is GMP certified and free of additives, toxins, and preservatives.

Eastern herbal medicine is recognized as the most advanced form of herbology. Each herb has specific classifications. There is a hierarchy from superior to inferior herbs. A superior herb is used to promote wellness, longevity, has no toxicity and can be used long term. A middle class herb is used to treat specific conditions and can be used long term with minimal side effects. A lower grade herb is used to treat illness, has a higher chance for side effects and can only be used for short durations. Usually herbs from the three categories are combined in a prescription formula. A formula consists of two to thirty single herbs in combination to produce complimentary effects. Herbs are also classified by their thermal and flavor energetics. They are viewed as hot, cold, neutral, sweet, pungent, bitter, sour and salty. Additionally, the characteristics of each herb determine what organ it will function with. For example, the bitter and cooling flavor of dandelion leaf will aid in liver function and the warm and sweet quality of ginseng can raise core temperature and stimulate immunity. Most herbal formulas take a couple of weeks before significant results are noticed, especially if the condition is chronic. Please be patient and remember consistency is the key. One should never take herbal supplements before consulting a licensed herbalist or practitioner. Many formulas can interact with pharmaceutical medication and supplements. Only a trained herbalist will know the cautions and contraindications.

What is Moxibustion?

Moxibustion is the practice of burning a fine herb (mugwort) over specific points on the body to enable a self healing response. There are many ways to apply the technique. For instance, it can be held as a cigar over specific points, it can be burned directly on the point, or it can be attached to acupuncture needles. The technique of direct moxibustion was developed and refined in Japan. A skilled practitioner can use this technique without pain or discomfort to the patient. In Japan, moxibustion is often prescribed for self use. This can prolong the effect of acupuncture treatment. Clinical research has shown this technique to be effective for a broad range of conditions, including breached fetus-uterine fibroids-chronic pain-arthritis-pediatric ear infections-tendonitis. For a self use moxibustion chart click here.

Does acupuncture hurt?

No, Acupuncture treatment should not hurt. The needles used to stimulate acupuncture points are quite thin, barely beyond the thickness of a human hair. There is no medical substance injected, as with hypodermic needles. In fact, one can fit 14 acupuncture needles into one hypodermic needle! Many patients don't feel any sensation at all, while others feel a slight prick during insertion then heaviness over the point. With Japanese acupuncture there usually is an immediate improvement in your complaint. Acupuncture treatment should be a relaxing and restful experience. Our clinic is a quite sanctuary free from the stresses of Los Angeles.

What if I am needle phobic?

I have members of my own family who are needle phobic. I empathize and will work with the patient to provide a positive and accommodating experience. Most patients feel much better after their treatment despite their initial fears. Other modalities can be used , such as acupressure, moxibustion, laser and e-stim when needed.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of required treatments will depend on your specific condition. In general, the longer one has had the condition the greater amount of treatments will be needed. Most of my patients see me once a week for a pre specified period of time. Usually one will experience immediate relief from their condition. This might last from one day to one week. After consecutive treatments the length of symptom free time extends as your body embeds the healing memory. The average treatment plan lasts 4-8 weeks, although many of my patients continue with me for preventive care.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture is extremely safe. It holds the lowest risk of any licensed health professional. I only use pre sterilized, single use disposable needles from Japan. These needles are known for their accuracy and gentleness. All needles are composed of surgical stainless steel.

What conditions can be treated by Acupuncture?

I have has success treating;

Chronic Pain

Headaches

Infertility

Stress/anxiety

Neurological disorders

Fibromyalgia

PMS

Allergies

IBS, Chrons Disease, Ulcerative Collitis, GERD

Side effects to Chemotherapy

Post surgery recovery

Does insurance cover Acupuncture?

I accept MPI, Writers Guild, SAG, Coastwise, Blue Cross/ Blue Shield PPO. My office will gladly call to verify if your insurance covers Acupuncture treatments.

I also take Auto Accident/personal injury and California workers compensation. Acupuncturists are classified as primary care physicians in the CA state work comp system.

What sets us apart from other practitioners?

You will never feel rushed. We take whatever time is needed to provide you with optimal care. This includes: 1 ½ hour initial visit and 60 minute follow-ups.

A clear diagnosis and treatment plan is provided to you.

We have a deep passion for helping those like yourself. This compassion can be felt throughout the clinic.

We align ourselves with top Physicians and health practitioners in the area.

When you receive acupuncture treatments, at no extra charge, you will also receive shiatsu, cupping, nutritional consultation, exercise therapy and moxibustion when needed.

You can speak to Jesse directly about your needs or concerns.

Your treatment is specifically tailored to your needs. We respect each individual and value you as a person.

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Phelps Acupuncture of Santa Monica serving Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Los Angeles, West Los Angeles
Beverly Hills, Culver City, Mar Vista, Playa Del Rey, Manhattan Beach, Hollywood Hills, Burbank and more.