Q: Who leads the Atlantic Center and what is his background?
A: The Atlantic Center is led by Dr. Robert A. Balko, DAc, a Doctor of Acupuncture and specialist in East Asian medicine. He earned his Doctorate in Acupuncture from Pacific College of Health and Science, graduated top of his class from the Eastern School of Acupuncture in 2005, and also holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and an MBA from St. Peter’s University. Dr. Balko has advanced training in Taiwan and China and has participated in volunteer medical missions to Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan.

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Q: What makes the Atlantic Center different from other acupuncture clinics?
A: The Atlantic Center combines traditional East Asian medicine with modern therapies such as Photobiomodulation, Low-Level Laser Therapy, magnetic therapy, and electro-acupuncture. Dr. Balko has specialized expertise in stroke and traumatic brain injury treatment, offering advanced neurological protocols that are not commonly found in most practices. Patients also benefit from a newly upgraded facility in Wall, New Jersey.

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Q: What conditions can acupuncture support?
A: Acupuncture at the Atlantic Center may help patients experiencing allergies, digestive discomfort, respiratory conditions, and skin irritations such as eczema, psoriasis, or hives. It is also used to support neurological conditions, including paralysis, swallowing and speech difficulties, and depression related to stroke or traumatic brain injury. In addition, acupuncture is widely used for pain management including chronic back and neck pain, headaches, arthritis, neuropathies, joint and muscle pain, and both acute and long-term injuries.

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Q: What should I expect during my first acupuncture visit?
A: The initial acupuncture visit includes a comprehensive health history intake and consultation, followed by treatment planning. This appointment is scheduled for up to one hour, although it may take less time depending on the patient. New patients are encouraged to wear loose, comfortable clothing and have a healthy meal before their visit.

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Q: What are the follow-up acupuncture treatment options?
A: Standard follow-up acupuncture visits last 45 minutes. Patients may also choose the Stress Express session, which is a 30-minute treatment designed to reduce stress and anxiety. This treatment is offered at a lower price point as we are not specifically targeting the treatment for symptoms and underlying root causes. For individuals dealing with neurological conditions such as stroke, concussion, Parkinson’s disease, or Alzheimer’s, specialized one-hour sessions are available.

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Q: How does acupuncture help with stress?
A: Acupuncture has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Acupuncture stimulates the brain to release hormones that support healthy rest, digestion, focus, and pain relief to name just a few. Treatments encourage relaxation and may also improve related symptoms such as headaches, difficulty sleeping, and muscle tension. The Stress Express session is a focused option for patients who want a shorter, targeted treatment for stress relief.

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Q: What is Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT)?
A: Advanced Allergy Therapeutics is a needle-free program designed to reduce sensitivities to seasonal, environmental, or food-related allergens. The initial diagnostic session, which includes testing and a first treatment and generally lasts up to one hour. Follow-up treatments, and discounts are available for patients enrolled in treatment programs. It is important to note that this program does not cure all allergic reactions, and a consultation is required to determine if it is appropriate for your specific needs.

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Q: What is Photobiomodulation or Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)?
A: Photobiomodulation, also known as Low-Level Laser Therapy, uses cold laser technology to stimulate healing and repair at the cellular level. Scientists have determined that certain frequencies of light affect specific tissues in the body, allowing us to target problem areas directly. Focused treatments yield focused results. This therapy can be used alongside acupuncture to enhance results, reduce inflammation, and support recovery from injuries or chronic conditions.

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Q: Does the Atlantic Center offer herbal or nutritional support?
A: Yes, the clinic offers customized Chinese herbal medicine and nutritional supplement programs. These therapies are designed to complement acupuncture and other treatments by addressing the underlying imbalances in the body and supporting overall wellness. Herbal and nutritional approaches may also help with allergies, digestion, and immune health.

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Q: What is Biomat therapy?
A: Biomat therapy combines far infrared heat, amethyst crystals, and negative ion technology to encourage relaxation, reduce pain, and promote circulation. Patients often use Biomat therapy to complement acupuncture sessions and enhance the overall healing process.

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Q: What is Qi Gong instruction?
A: Qi Gong is a traditional East Asian practice that integrates movement, breathing, and focus to cultivate energy, also known as Qi. At the Atlantic Center, Qi Gong instruction is offered to help patients manage stress, restore energy balance, and support ongoing wellness beyond the clinical setting.

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Q: How does Dr. Balko specialize in neurological care?
A: Dr. Balko has advanced training in acupuncture protocols for neurological recovery, particularly for stroke and traumatic brain injury patients. He provides specialized treatments that address paralysis, speech or swallowing difficulties, depression, and motor recovery. His work has been enhanced by training with experts such as Dr. Clayton Shiu and Dr. Ayla Wolf, and he brings this specialized knowledge to his practice in Wall, NJ.

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Q: Is acupuncture safe?
A: Acupuncture is considered safe when performed by a licensed professional in a clinical setting. It has been recognized by organizations such as the American Pain Society and the American College of Physicians as a recommended therapy for chronic low back pain when conventional treatment has not provided relief. Patients at the Atlantic Center can feel confident knowing that treatments are conducted by a licensed Doctor of Acupuncture with nearly two decades of clinical experience.

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Q: How do I schedule an appointment?
A: Appointments can be scheduled by using the online contact form at The Atlantic Center, call or text (732) 775-0033, or by emailing Dr. Balko directly at rob@theatlanticcenter.com.

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