Frequently Asked Questions

What Will My First Acupuncture Visit Be Like?

During your first visit you will be asked many questions, some related specifically to your complaint and others about your overall health. With all aspects of Oriental Medicine your whole health picture is in taken into consideration so we can address the cause of the disease, as well as the symptoms. Your entire first visit may take up to 90 minutes and return acupuncture treatments will last between 45 to 60 minutes. Please avoid overeating or being very hungry immediately before treatment.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Over the centuries, refined needle insertion techniques have been developed which enable an acupuncture practitioner to insert a needle with little or no sensation. Different sensations such as warmth or pressure may be felt, but the sensation differs from pain. People often comment that during a treatment, they feel pleasant and relaxed. Most patients find treatment very relaxing and some even fall asleep while the needles are in. The needles are left in for about thirty minutes. For reasons of safety, we only use sterile disposable needles. Acupuncture needles are very thin, solid, and nothing is injected through them.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Since each person is unique, the number and frequency of treatments needed will vary. The treatment plan will depend partly on the type of condition, whether the condition is chronic or acute, and the vitality of the individual. In the beginning, minor chronic conditions will need at least one treatment per week. For acute injury, or for severe problems, 2 or 3 treatments per week will be necessary in the beginning stages of treatment. The longer a condition has existed and the more serious the condition is, more treatments would be required to see a lasting benefit. We will discuss a treatment plan at your first appointment.

How Should I Prepare for My First Visit?

To save time you may fill out our office forms before coming into the office. Please bring with you any information about your case you may have from your other doctors, such as lab tests, blood work, reports of x-rays or MRI`s. Please also bring a form of payment as it is expected at the time of your visit. We accept cash, personal check, or credit cards (Mastercard or Visa).

Will Insurance Pay for Acupuncture?

Our office participates with several medical insurance providers for your convenience. Today many insurance companies cover acupuncture costs. However, your coverage may vary depending on your specific plan and your diagnosis. Check with your insurance plan for details, and you may want to call them for specifics. 

Are There Other Treatments Available at Your Clinic Besides Acupuncture?

Acupuncturists may use other additional forms of treatment such as electrical stimulation of acupuncture needles, infrared heat therapy, moxibustion (a form of heat therapy) or massage and movement techniques along with the acupuncture. We also may recommend Chinese herbal medicine to increase the effectiveness of your treatment. We will recommend these treatments if we believe they will be beneficial to relieving your symptoms and restoring healthy balance.

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