Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow. Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s nervous system, and in combination with Tui Na (massage), Cupping, and our other tools, Acupuncture can have a wide variety of beneficial effects on the body.

It is entirely possible, but without a deep-dive into your personal details we can’t be sure; acupuncture certainly doesn’t claim to “cure” most things. The purpose of the free 30-minute consult at the beginning of everyone’s first appointment is to determine this, exactly.

Most people don’t even notice the needles! Some note a tapping sensation, or a feeling of heaviness or fullness. Occasionally a needle will hurt, but if it hurts for more than a few seconds we readjust or remove the needle; with very few exceptions, this is NOT a “no pain no gain” kind of clinic.

Most people only notice a little soreness where a needle was inserted, if they notice anything; occasionally there is some mild bruising, especially if we are doing cupping. And while more severe issues can results from Acupuncture, the last Analysis I read (in 2018) showed a 1 in 4 million chance of that happening… So yes, I’d say it’s pretty safe!

A typical session is one hour, plus the 30-minute consultation at the first appointment; this gives time for us to use any modalities supporting the acupuncture, as well as giving you time to rest with the needles to maximize their effectiveness.

Many! There are various acupuncture techniques, including traditional acupuncture, electroacupuncture, and auricular acupuncture, which may be used alone or in combination depending on the individual’s needs. Many Licensed Acupuncturists also have a sub-specialty that they use to maximize the effectiveness of their treatments.

When performed by a skilled practitioner, acupuncture is generally safe for most people; we do exercise caution with children, pregnant women, and people with bleeding disorders, just to name a few. However, it’s essential to discuss any concerns or specific health conditions with the practitioner beforehand, which is why we have our initial consultation!

A Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc) such as myself generally needs a Master’s Degree and/or PhD, which includes classroom and internship requirements; after that there are at least 3 National Board exams, then achieving Diplomate status with the NCCAOM, and finally State licensure. This is maintained with CEU’s every year. Meanwhile, A Certified Acupuncturist is a physician, chiropractor, dentist, or physical therapist with up to 300 hours of training depending on state regulations.

Treatment duration and frequency entirely depend on the issue, it’s length and severity, and other mitigating factors; after all, back pain two days after falling off a ladder is completely different than back pain from a car accident twenty years ago. Though I can say for sure that I will discuss the numbers with you during the initial consultation, typically issues take 6-12 treatments, needing more or less based on the above factors.

Almost none! Sometimes people feel a little light-headed immediately after getting off the treatment table, but this tends to be quite short-lived. Other people notice being hungry or thirsty or wanting a nap afterwards, which we attribute to positive body function.

During your first acupuncture appointment, I will discuss your medical history, assess your condition, and explain the treatment process before beginning the acupuncture session. In the session itself, I will use treatment modalities we discussed, then insert needles and let you rest with them, before giving you a print-out recapping our discussion of the treatment plan and homework suggestions.

Before an acupuncture session, it’s advisable to eat a light meal and avoid caffeine and alcohol, as well as wearing loose, comfortable clothing.

Absolutely! Acupuncture can complement conventional medical treatments, and I’m happy to work alongside people’s medical doctor and healthcare teams to ensure best results.

Sometimes! More and more health insurance plans now offer partial or full coverage for acupuncture treatments. I encourage you to call and ask about “routine acupuncture” coverage, or my billing company can check.