FAQs

The insertion of acupuncture needles has numerous effects on the body and mind. Points are located on the body where nerves, muscles and tissues are most effectively stimulated. These points help to regulate the messages between the body and the brain which can create many positive changes in the body. Acupuncture has been shown to activate the immune system, trigger the body’s own natural pain killers, increase blood flow, reduce stagnation, and regulate and calm the nervous system, all of which stimulate the body’s innate ability to heal itself.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic medicine with comprehensive theory which includes numerous modalities for treating the imbalances of the body. TCM includes Acupuncture as well as non-needling methods such as Cupping (decompression via suction), Gua Sha (muscle scraping), Chinese Herbal Medicine, Moxibustion (herbal heat therapy), Food Therapy, Tui Na (Chinese massage), and Acupressure.

We ask that you ensure all intake paperwork is completed before arrival to ensure prompt treatment. Please ensure you have used the restroom before checking in.

At your first visit an initial intake will be given, during which we go over your health concerns, medical history, and goals. This will be followed by a treatment and an overview of your recommended treatment plan. The initial appointment typically lasts 60-90 minutes. Follow up visits include a brief consultation before treatment and typically last approximately 45-60 minutes. During appointments needles are typically retained for 20-30 minutes.

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing that can be moved to allow access to your elbows and knees. Many of the acupuncture points used are on these areas of the body. If your treatment requires points on other areas of the body, you will be draped accordingly.

Please ensure you have eaten within two hours of your appointment and are hydrated. Being hydrated and having your blood sugar regulated will ensure your body responds well to treatment and that you are comfortable.

After treatment we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise and alcohol consumption which could lessen the positive outcomes of your treatment.

Acupuncture needles are very thin, about the size of a few human hairs and very flexible. Most patients feel little to no pain, others report feeling a slight pinch as the needle is inserted. Once inserted it is common (and favorable) to feel slight tingling and/or a dull achy sensation in the area needled. Acupuncturists identify this as ‘the arrival of qi’, this is a therapeutic effect. Many patients feel peaceful and meditate or nap during their treatment. Depending on what each patient’s body needs, the patient may leave feeling rested and relaxed or energized and revitalized.

It depends on what you are being seen for. Some people see results after their first treatment, others it can take several. Generally, the longer you have had the problem, the longer it is going to take to heal. Healing is different for each person. Treatment effects often build with each visit as the body regulates, with positive outcomes increasing.

If your or your loved one are not ready to try an Acupuncture treatment there are other non-needling modalities of treatment that can be used such as those listed under the question “What is TCM”, as well as tuning fork (vibrational sound) therapy.

We do not. We do accept cash, all major credit cards, HSA and FSA cards. We are also able to give you an itemized statement of services received that you can turn in to your insurance for reimbursement- *Please check with your insurance to see if this applies to your coverage.

Acupuncture is one treatment modality in TCM. It is used in conjunction with the comprehensive theory in assessing and treating disharmony (which shows up as unwanted symptoms) in the body. Acupuncture treats the patient on a much larger, whole-body scale. Dry needling is defined under the umbrella of acupuncture but without the theory or diagnosis of TCM and the holistic approach. It is a more biomedical approach of needling based on anatomy and trigger points or neuromuscular junctions. Dry needling is typically used to treat local pain or injury to reduce pain and increase function in the area.

Yes. When the patient’s condition calls for a more heavy and localized needling treatment, this, among other methods such as electro-acupuncture, qua sha, cupping or tui-na are utilized. Typically, other points are also included in accordance with the TCM diagnosis and treatment for best therapeutic effects. This is all determined during the patient intake and evaluation.