What is acupuncture? Acupuncture is just one mode of treament in Chinese medicine. It's the use of a needle to stimulate a specific point on the body to activate the Qi and Blood in channels. What does that mean? A point on your foot can stop a migraine because that point and your head are linked by a channel. A point on your arm helps your cold because the point activates the channel. For the scientific explanation click http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1418-ct-scan-acupuncture-point-discovery

Why herbal medicine? Pharmaceuticals are great when absolutely necessary (diabetes, strep, bladder and kidney infections, for example). But sometimes people prefer a more natural route when pharmaceuticals aren't appropriate. And herbs aren't to be taken lightly! There are antivirals, antibacterials, diuretics, vasodilators, bronchodilators, and much more. They are gentler on the body with less side effects and the body doesn't build a tolerance to them. 

What exactly can acupuncture treat? Acupuncture is amazing for a plethora of ailments such as musculo-skeletal disorders, sports medicine, dysfunction of the tendons/ligaments , anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, digestive issues, auto-immune disorders, gynecological and women's health, PMS, PMDD, LGTB community, respiratory, neurological, and much more. Dr. Plummer specializes in orthopedic and musculo-skeletal acupuncture but keeps her focus on general medicine. Most famously, acupuncture does an amazing job in pain management, please click for more information http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1336-acupuncture-pain-killing-mystery-revealed If you would like to know if you're a candidate for treatment, please feel free to ask!

Does it hurt? No. Dr. Plummer has a gentle yet effective needling technique. If you are nervous, she will work with your limits and make sure you are comfortable throughout the treatment. If you are uncomfortable with the thought of Dr. Plummer leaving the room while you lay, you are provided with a call button that alerts her and she will come right back in for you. Rarely, the needle insertion may sting but dissipates in a matter of seconds. Once the needle has found the point, patients typically experience a dull or achey sensation which is referred to as 'De Qi'. For an explanation on De Qi please click http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1348-acupuncture-de-qi-sensations-now-quantifiable

What can I expect during my acupuncture treatment? A thorough medical intake will be taken during your first visit which will include past and current medical history, possibly a quick physical examination which includes blood pressure, palpation, and pulse and tongue examination. There isn’t one protocol that every practitioner follows. Your treatment is personalized depending upon your ailment and your overall constitution. You can expect an open and non-judgmental practitioner who will employ the best treatment therapies to aide you in your achievement of balanced health. You can also expect a helpful staff, a Zen treatment room, a thorough health practitioner, and an amazing experience at Open Channel. 

What can I do to prepare for my acupuncture appointment? It is important to not come on an empty stomach, please eat something light an hour or so before you arrive. Arms, legs, back, and abdomen are extremely common areas that your practitioner needs easy access to- please wear loose fitting and comfortable clothes. If you are currently on medications or supplements please bring a list of everything you take. There are a few forms that you will need to fill out before speaking with the practitioner, please arrive fifteen or more minutes early to accommodate for the paperwork as well as parking. Most importantly, anticipate a great and effective treatment!

What is your cancellation policy? If you know you will not make it to your scheduled appointment, please reschedule or cancel with more than 24 hours notice. Failure to do so will result in a charge of 75% of the full appointment fee. Cancellation fee must be paid before next treatment.

Do you take insurance? We do! We are in-network with United Healthcare, Optum, Anthem, and other insurances contracted with American Specialty Health. If you aren't sure if your insurance covers acupuncture, please give us a call and we will verify your benefits for you.