Cigna Health and Acupuncture: Your Comprehensive Guide

  • Reading time:8 mins read
Acupuncture treatment for pain management with Cigna Health Insurance coverage
Acupuncture can help relieve chronic pain, stress, and improve overall wellness, with coverage under Cigna Health Insurance.

Cigna Health Insurance and Acupuncture Coverage: Your Comprehensive Guide

Acupuncture, an ancient healing practice rooted in Traditional Eastern Medicine (Korean TKM, and Chinese TCM, etc), has become a popular and effective treatment for a variety of health concerns, including chronic pain, stress, and wellness support. If you have Cigna Health Insurance, you may wonder whether acupuncture is covered under your plan. The good news is that acupuncture is often covered by Cigna, especially for medically necessary conditions. In this blog post, we will explore how acupuncture coverage works with Cigna Health Insurance, the steps to take to maximize your benefits, and how our clinic, as a member of the Acucare network, can help you access acupuncture treatment through your Cigna plan.


Understanding Cigna Health Insurance and Acupuncture Coverage

Cigna is a leading health insurance provider in the United States, offering a wide range of health plans. Cigna often includes acupuncture as a covered service, particularly when it is used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for medically necessary conditions such as chronic pain, migraines, and stress. However, coverage can vary depending on your specific plan, so it’s important to review your benefits and verify the details.

Acupuncture is generally covered for conditions such as:

    • Chronic pain (e.g., back pain, neck pain, knee pain)
    • Migraines and tension headaches
    • Stress and anxiety management
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Post-surgical recovery

How Does Cigna Acupuncture Coverage Work?

When you are considering acupuncture as a treatment option under your Cigna Health Insurance, it’s essential to understand how the process works. Here’s a breakdown:

    1. Referral Requirements for Acupuncture:

      For Cigna members with PPO plans, referrals are generally not required to see an acupuncturist. This makes it easier to access acupuncture care without needing prior approval. Many HMO plans also waive the referral requirement for acupuncture, though this can vary depending on the specifics of your plan. Regardless of whether you have a PPO or HMO, it’s always a good idea to double-check the details of your coverage, as some plans may still require a referral for acupuncture treatment.

    2. Network Providers:

      Once you’ve confirmed that acupuncture is covered under your plan, the next step is to ensure that your acupuncturist is in-network with Cigna. As a member of the Acucare network, our clinic accepts Cigna insurance, making it easy for you to access acupuncture treatments without worrying about high out-of-pocket costs. The Acucare network ensures that you can receive acupuncture from trusted, licensed practitioners who work closely with Cigna to provide excellent care.

    3. Verify Coverage Details:

      Before scheduling your acupuncture sessions, it’s a good idea to contact Cigna customer service or use their online tools to verify your acupuncture coverage. This will help you understand how many sessions are covered per year, any co-pays or deductibles that may apply, and any limitations or restrictions based on your specific plan.

    4. Co-pays and Deductibles:

      Acupuncture treatments under Cigna may require you to pay co-pays, deductibles, or coinsurance, depending on your plan. If you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), you might need to pay more out-of-pocket until you meet your deductible. Knowing your financial responsibility ahead of time will help you plan for the costs associated with your acupuncture treatments.

    5. Claims Process:

      If you choose to see an acupuncturist who is in-network with Cigna, the claims process is usually handled directly by the provider. However, if you opt to see an out-of-network acupuncturist, you may need to submit a claim to Cigna for reimbursement. Make sure to provide any necessary documentation, such as your treatment plan and diagnosis codes, to ensure smooth processing of your claim.


Patient relaxing during acupuncture session with Cigna Health Insurance coverage
Acupuncture provides natural relief for stress and chronic pain, and it’s covered under many Cigna Health Insurance plans

 

Why Choose Acupuncture for Pain Management and Wellness?

Acupuncture offers a natural, holistic approach to managing a variety of health conditions. Here are some key reasons why acupuncture may be a great treatment option for you:

1. Effective Pain Relief

Acupuncture is widely recognized for its ability to treat chronic pain. Whether you suffer from back pain, knee pain, or neck pain, acupuncture can provide significant relief. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture promotes the release of endorphins and improves blood circulation, which can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

2. Stress and Anxiety Reduction

Acupuncture is known for its calming effect on the nervous system, making it an effective treatment for stress and anxiety. It helps restore balance to the body’s energy flow, enabling you to feel more relaxed and centered. If you’re struggling with stress or anxiety, acupuncture can be a valuable tool to improve your mental health.

3. Improved Sleep Quality

Many individuals who experience chronic pain or stress also face difficulty sleeping. Acupuncture can help improve the quality of your sleep by regulating your body’s internal balance. Whether you’re dealing with insomnia or simply want better rest, acupuncture may help you achieve deeper, more restful sleep.

4. Post-Surgical Recovery

After surgery, acupuncture can be a great complement to your recovery process. It promotes healing by reducing inflammation and improving circulation, helping you recover more quickly. Acupuncture may also help reduce the pain and stiffness associated with post-surgical rehabilitation.

5. A Holistic Approach to Health

Unlike traditional Western medicine, acupuncture focuses on treating the root cause of your condition, not just the symptoms. By stimulating acupuncture points, the practice aims to restore balance to your body and mind, promoting overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to enhance your wellness or address specific health issues, acupuncture can provide a holistic approach to achieving better health.


How We Can Help

As a proud member of the Acucare network, our clinic is dedicated to providing high-quality acupuncture services to Cigna members. We work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure that acupuncture becomes an integral part of your treatment plan. Whether you’re seeking pain relief, stress reduction, or general wellness support, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

When you visit our clinic, you can expect a thorough consultation to discuss your health history, symptoms, and goals. We will develop a personalized acupuncture treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. By collaborating with you and your primary care physician, we aim to help you achieve the best possible outcomes from your acupuncture sessions.


Conclusion

Acupuncture is a proven and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, including pain management, stress relief, and overall wellness. Cigna Health Insurance often covers acupuncture, with many PPO plans not requiring referrals and many HMO plans waiving this requirement. As a member of the Acucare network, our clinic is proud to accept Cigna Health Insurance, making it easier for you to access acupuncture care with minimal out-of-pocket costs.

If you’re considering acupuncture for your health concerns, reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you take advantage of your Cigna coverage. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to better health and wellness with acupuncture!


About Rivernorth Acupuncture
Rivernorth Acupuncture, located in Diamond Bar, CA, is dedicated to providing high-quality acupuncture care for patients seeking natural pain relief, stress management, and overall wellness. Our licensed acupuncturist specializes in treatments for chronic pain, migraines, anxiety, and more. As a member of the Acucare network, we accept Cigna Health Insurance, making it easier for you to access acupuncture treatments with minimal costs.

Treating patients from the following areas:
Diamond Bar, Pomona, Walnut, Chino Hills, Brea, Fullerton, and surrounding areas.

#Acupuncture #CignaInsurance #AcupunctureTreatment #PainManagement #ChronicPainRelief #StressRelief #WellnessJourney #NaturalHealing #AcupunctureWorks #PainRelief #StressManagement #HealthyLiving #AcupunctureForPain #AcupunctureForStress #AcupunctureCare #DiamondBarAcupuncture #ChinoHillsAcupuncture #PomonaAcupuncture #WellnessClinic #AcupunctureNearMe #AcucareNetwork

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Get Summer-Ready: Boost Muscle Recovery with Acupuncture and Cupping

Read more about the article Get Summer-Ready: Boost Muscle Recovery with Acupuncture and Cupping
"Unlock your summer body with expert acupuncture and cupping therapy in Diamond Bar. Faster recovery, stronger muscles—get ready to dominate!"
  • Reading time:5 mins read

Unlock Your Summer Body: The Power of Acupuncture and Cupping Therapy for Workout Recovery and Muscle Development

Hey there, fitness warriors! Summer is right around the corner, and you know what that means—it’s time to get that beach-ready body in top shape. Whether you’re hitting the gym hard, running those extra miles, or pumping iron like a beast, you want to make sure your muscles are not just bulging, but also recovering well. Enter the dynamic duo: acupuncture and cupping therapy. Yep, these ancient techniques are making a modern comeback, and they might just be the secret weapons you need for optimal workout recovery and muscle development.

Acupuncture: Needle Your Way to Muscle Bliss

Let’s kick things off with acupuncture. If the thought of needles makes you cringe, bear with us. This isn’t some medieval torture technique—it’s a highly refined practice that’s been honed over thousands of years.

How It Works: Acupuncture involves inserting super-fine needles into specific points on your body. These points, known as acupoints, are believed to be pathways that stimulate your body’s energy flow (or “qi”) and blood circulation. The result? Improved recovery times, reduced muscle soreness, and enhanced overall performance.

Why It’s Awesome:

  1. Pain Relief: Needles trigger your body’s natural painkillers. Think of it as a built-in, natural ibuprofen boost.
  2. Enhanced Recovery: Increased blood flow helps deliver more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles, speeding up the healing process.
  3. Flexibility & Range of Motion: Regular acupuncture sessions can help you stay limber and prevent injuries, keeping you in the game longer.

Cupping Therapy: Suck It Up for Muscle Magic

Now, let’s talk about cupping therapy. If you’ve ever seen those cool, circular marks on athletes like Michael Phelps and wondered what they were, you’ve seen the aftereffects of cupping. This therapy involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which helps with everything from pain relief to muscle relaxation.

How It Works: Cupping therapy uses suction to lift your skin and underlying tissues, enhancing blood flow and drawing stagnant blood to the surface. This process helps your muscles recover faster by promoting better circulation.

Why It’s Awesome:

  1. Deep Muscle Relaxation: The suction helps loosen tight muscles, making it easier for you to bounce back from tough workouts.
  2. Reduced Inflammation: By improving blood flow, cupping can help reduce the inflammation that leads to soreness and pain.
  3. Detoxification: Cupping helps your body flush out toxins, giving you that fresh, rejuvenated feeling after an intense gym session.
Diamond Bar’s Secret to Fast Recovery and Muscle Gains
“Experience top-notch workout recovery and muscle development with acupuncture and cupping therapy at our Diamond Bar clinic. Get ready to shine this summer!”

The Perfect Pair for a Summer Body

Combining acupuncture and cupping can be a game-changer for your fitness routine. Here’s why these therapies are a perfect match:

  • Comprehensive Recovery: While acupuncture targets specific points to enhance energy flow and pain relief, cupping works on larger areas to improve circulation and muscle relaxation. Together, they cover all your recovery bases.
  • Injury Prevention: Regular sessions can help keep your muscles and joints in top shape, reducing the risk of injuries that could sideline your summer body goals.
  • Mental Boost: Both therapies promote relaxation and stress relief, which are crucial for staying motivated and focused on your fitness journey.

Getting Started

Ready to give it a shot? Here’s how to get started:

  1. Find a Qualified Practitioner: Look for licensed acupuncturists and cupping therapists who have experience working with athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
  2. Set Your Goals: Talk to your practitioner about your fitness goals and any specific issues you’re facing, like muscle tightness or recurring pain.
  3. Stay Consistent: Like any other aspect of your fitness routine, consistency is key. Regular sessions will yield the best results.

Final Thoughts

So, fellas, as you gear up for those beach days and pool parties, remember that a killer workout plan isn’t just about the reps and sets. Recovery is just as important, and that’s where acupuncture and cupping therapy come into play. Give these ancient techniques a try, and you might just find the edge you need to sculpt that perfect summer body.

Stay fit, stay strong, and get ready to rock that summer look with confidence!

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The Road to Recovery: Harnessing the Healing Power of Acupuncture for Auto Accident Patients

  • Reading time:6 mins read

 

On This Page
        1. Introduction
        2. Effective Pain Management
        3. Accelerated Healing and Reduced Inflammation
        4. Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility
        5. Stress and Anxiety Reduction
        6. Enhanced Sleep Quality and Energy Levels
        7. Complementary Therapy with Conventional Treatments
        8. Boosting Immune Function
        9. Non-Invasive and Safe Treatment
        10. Long-Term Wellness and Prevention
        11. Conclusion

 

Introduction:

An auto accident can turn one’s life upside down in an instant, leaving behind physical and emotional trauma that can be challenging to overcome. While conventional medical treatments play a crucial role in the recovery process, an increasing number of auto accident patients are turning to complementary therapies like acupuncture to support their healing journey. Acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has shown remarkable benefits for auto accident patients, providing natural pain relief, reducing inflammation, and addressing emotional and psychological challenges. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the numerous advantages of acupuncture treatment for auto accident patients and explore how this time-honored therapy can play a vital role in their holistic recovery.

Power of Acupuncture for Auto Accident Patients

  1. Effective Pain Management:

Pain is often the most immediate and distressing aftermath of an auto accident. Acupuncture offers a non-invasive and drug-free method for effectively managing pain. By inserting fine needles into specific acupoints, acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms, such as the release of endorphins and enkephalins. These natural chemicals help alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve blood flow, promoting faster healing and providing much-needed relief to auto accident patients.

  1. Accelerated Healing and Reduced Inflammation:

Acupuncture has been found to accelerate the body’s natural healing processes and reduce inflammation in injured tissues. By stimulating the acupoints, acupuncture increases blood circulation to the affected areas, supplying essential nutrients and oxygen that aid in tissue repair. Additionally, acupuncture helps modulate the immune response, dampening excessive inflammation and supporting the body’s ability to recover more efficiently from injuries sustained in an auto accident.

  1. Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility:

Auto accident injuries often result in restricted range of motion and stiffness, hindering patients from engaging in daily activities. Acupuncture’s ability to release tension in muscles and joints can significantly improve range of motion and flexibility. As the body’s energy pathways, known as meridians, are balanced through acupuncture, patients experience increased joint mobility and enhanced flexibility, which are essential for regaining functionality and independence.

  1. Stress and Anxiety Reduction:

Recovering from an auto accident can take a toll on a person’s mental well-being. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are not uncommon. Acupuncture treatments have a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety levels. By regulating neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, acupuncture helps auto accident patients cope with emotional challenges, allowing them to focus on their healing journey with a clearer and more positive mindset.

  1. Enhanced Sleep Quality and Energy Levels:

Sleep disruptions are common among auto accident patients due to pain and anxiety. Acupuncture’s ability to promote relaxation and balance the body’s energy can lead to improved sleep quality. As patients enjoy more restful sleep, their bodies can direct more energy towards the healing process, fostering a quicker recovery. Better sleep also contributes to enhanced mood and overall energy levels, enabling patients to face the challenges of recovery with greater vigor.

  1. Complementary Therapy with Conventional Treatments:

Acupuncture works harmoniously as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments. Integrating acupuncture into an auto accident patient’s overall treatment plan can enhance the effectiveness of traditional medical interventions. The combination of acupuncture’s natural healing benefits with medical interventions such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and pain management techniques creates a well-rounded approach to recovery.

  1. Boosting Immune Function:

Auto accident injuries can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections and delaying the healing process. Acupuncture strengthens the body’s immune function by promoting the flow of vital energy (Qi) throughout the body. This can help auto accident patients recover faster and maintain their overall health during the healing period.

  1. Non-Invasive and Safe Treatment:

One of the most appealing aspects of acupuncture is its non-invasive nature. The insertion of thin needles into the skin causes minimal discomfort, making it an excellent option for auto accident patients who may be wary of invasive procedures. Acupuncture is also a safe practice when performed by a licensed and experienced acupuncturist, with very few side effects when compared to pharmaceutical interventions.

  1. Long-Term Wellness and Prevention:

Beyond the immediate recovery phase, acupuncture fosters long-term wellness for auto accident patients. Regular acupuncture sessions can help maintain the body’s balance, preventing the development of chronic pain or recurring injuries. Moreover, acupuncture supports overall well-being by promoting relaxation and stress reduction, leading to improved physical and mental health.

Conclusion:

The benefits of acupuncture for auto accident patients are extensive and have been recognized by a growing number of medical professionals and individuals seeking holistic healing. From effective pain management and reduced inflammation to improved sleep quality and emotional well-being, acupuncture plays a vital role in the comprehensive recovery process. As a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments, acupuncture empowers auto accident patients to embrace a holistic approach to healing. By tapping into the ancient wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine, patients can embark on a transformative journey towards physical and emotional restoration. It is crucial to consult a licensed acupuncturist and collaborate with other healthcare providers to create a tailored treatment plan that addresses individual needs, ensuring a smooth and successful recovery for auto accident patients.

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Korean herbs for skin conditions

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Chinese Korean Herbs For Skin Conditions and Wound Healing Promotion Diabetic Rivernorth Acupuncture Diamond Bar
Chinese and Korean herb for skin conditions – Rivernorth Acupuncture, Diamond Bar

 

Herbs and herbal therapy for skin disorders has been used for thousands of years. Even our biologically close relatives, the great apes, use herbal self-medication.

Many Chinese herbs and Korean herbs are known to have therapeutic effect on skin. This is an alternative method of therapy that can be administered in oral, topical, or injectable forms. It is now worthwhile for dermatologists throughout the West to gain some familiarity with this method. For the billion-plus people living in Asia, traditional herbal medicines are considered mainstream options for the treatment of this skin condition.

These herbs accelerate wound healing and the shortened wound healing period. They also promote blood vessel formation and suppress inflammations. Furthermore, some of these improved collagen fiber deposition and tissue on the wound surface.

One of many clinical studies shows that Formula “She-Xiang-Yu-Hong” Ointment promoted wound healing in diabetic mice.

Some of the commonly used herbs for skin conditions are Arnebiae Radix 자초, Coptidis Rhizoma 황련, Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex 황백피, Cnidii Fructus 사상자, Carthami Flos 홍화, Sanguis Draconis 혈갈, Ampelopsis Radix 백렴, and Angelicae Dahuricae Radix 백지, to name a few.

In Asia, especially in China and Korea, herbal treatments that have been used for centuries are now being studied scientifically. In Germany, the regulatory authority Commission E oversees herbal preparations and their recommended uses.

Rivernorth Acupuncture, Diamond Bar, CA. 경희강북한의원, 다이아몬드바

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Frozen Shoulder

  • Reading time:2 mins read
Rivernorth-Acupuncture-Diamond-Bar-Frozen shoulder
Acupuncture Treatment for Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis is a musculoskeletal condition in your shoulder joint.

It is characterized by a spontaneous onset of pain with gradual, progressive loss of glenohumeral joint motion and shoulder function.

•  Acupuncture is recommended for pain relief, improving ROM and function in patients.
•  Electro-acupuncture can also help in providing pain relief.

Call us today to learn more about treatment options and schedule a consultation.


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Myofascial Pain Syndrome

  • Reading time:1 mins read
Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome(MPS) is a form of chronic muscle pain. In this condition, pressure on sensitive points in your muscles causes pain and sometimes in seemingly unrelated parts of your body.
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Most acupuncture techniques, including warming acupuncture and electro-acupuncture are effective in decreasing myofascial pain and improving physical function.
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Call us to learn more about acupuncture treatment on MPS and make an appointment Today.


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Acupuncture for Dysphagia after Stroke

  • Reading time:3 mins read
Acupuncture for Dysphagia after stroke

Systematic Review on Acupuncture for Treatment of Dysphagia after Stroke.


Objective: To assess the therapeutic efficacy of acupuncture for dysphagia after stroke.

Methods: Seven electronic databases were searched from their inception until 31 September 2016. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) incorporating acupuncture or acupuncture combined with other interventions for treatment of dysphagia after stroke were enrolled. Then they were extracted
and assessed by two independent evaluators. Direct comparisons were conducted in RevMan 5.3.0 software.

Results: 6010 patients of 71 papers were included. The pooled analysis of efficacy rate of 58 studies indicated that acupuncture group was superior to the control group with moderate heterogeneity (RR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.13 1.21, 𝑍 = 9.08, and 𝑃 < 0.00001); meta-analysis of the studies using blind method showed that the efficacy rate of acupuncture group was 3.01 times that of control group with no heterogeneity (RR = 3.01, 95% CI: 1.95 4.65, 𝑍 = 4.97, and 𝑃 < 0.00001). Only 13 studies mentioned the safety evaluation.

Conclusion: The result showed that the acupuncture group was better than control group in terms of efficacy rate of dysphagia after stroke. And the combining result of those researches using blind method was more strong in proof. Strict evaluation standard and high-quality RCT design are necessary for further exploration.

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Acupuncture on shoulder hand syndrome

  • Reading time:4 mins read
Acupuncture on shoulder hand syndrome after stroke

Traditional manual acupuncture combined with rehabilitation therapy for shoulder hand syndrome after stroke within the Chinese healthcare system: a systematic review and meta-analysis


Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of traditional manual acupuncture combined with rehabilitation therapy versus rehabilitation therapy alone for shoulder hand syndrome after stroke.

Methods: Randomized controlled trials that compared the combined effects of traditional manual acupuncture and rehabilitation therapy to rehabilitation therapy alone for shoulder hand syndrome after stroke were included. Two reviewers independently screened the searched records, extracted the data and assessed risk of bias of the included studies. The treatment effect sizes were pooled in a meta-analysis using RevMan 5.3 software.

Results: A total of 20 studies involving 1918 participants were included in this study. Compared to rehabilitation therapy alone, the combined therapy significantly reduced pain on the visual analogue scale and improved limb movement on the Fugl–Meyer Assessment scale and the performance of activities of daily living (ADL) on the Barthel Index scale or Modified Barthel Index scale. Of these, the visual analogue scale score changes were significantly higher (mean difference = 1.49, 95% confidence interval = 1.15–1.82, P < 0.00001) favoring the combined therapy after treatment, with severe heterogeneity (I2 = 71%, P = 0.0005).

Conclusion: Current evidence suggests that traditional manual acupuncture integrated with rehabilitation therapy is more effective in alleviating pain, improving limb movement and activities of daily living.

Keywords: Traditional manual acupuncture, rehabilitation therapy, shoulder hand syndrome, stroke

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