FAQs
How big are the needles?
Acupuncture needles are fine, sterile, and single-use. Hypodermic needles are typically between 25-27 gauges, and most acupuncture needles range between 32-40 gauge*.
*Thickness decreases as gauge number increases.
Does it hurt?
Most people think acupuncture hurts, and understandably so. An acupuncture needle’s size is so tiny that most insertions go unnoticed, though sometimes there may be a sensation. The sensation is beneficial in acupuncture treatments and means the body is receiving a desired therapeutic response. In Chinese, this sensation is called 得气 De Qi. These sensations are generally mild and commonly include:
Heaviness or pressure around the point.
Warming of the surrounding skin.
A slight tingling sensation.
Why does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture studies have proposed numerous scientific explanations for how acupuncture works. It is shown to work on the body’s central nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles and brain that decrease inflammation, reduce pain, promote regeneration of tissues, restore sleep patterns, and more. On an energetic level, acupuncturists work to harmonize the body’s imbalances by influencing circulation in acupuncture meridians that course the entire body. By unblocking areas of obstruction, the meridians flow freely and effortlessly in a state of health and wellbeing.
Will I see results right away?
It depends! Some people may feel results right away, while others may take a few treatments. Many factors contribute to treatment outcomes, such as the severity and length of a condition. After most treatments, clients report leaving feeling relaxed, balanced, and in a more positive mental state. The effects of acupuncture are cumulative, so I generally recommend 4-6 treatments to start to see the benefits. If acupuncture is a good fit for you, a more individualized treatment plan including frequency and duration will be constructed.
How do I prepare for my treatment?
Always have a light meal or snack before receiving an acupuncture treatment and drink plenty of water during that day. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing for your treatment so we can access the acupuncture points distributed on the body. If needed, we will provide you with a garment to wear. If It is your first time getting acupuncture at our clinic, please fill out the patient intake forms on this website and bring them with you to your appointment or show up 15 minutes early to fill them out at the clinic.
What’s the difference between your visit types?
All new patients must schedule a first visit which is 90 min long. It will include a detailed intake that provides information about your current and previous medical history and more. After that, return office visits can be scheduled for acupuncture + other modalities (60min) or bodywork/ herbal medicine only (30min). If you would like a consultation for herbal medicine, you may schedule your return visit as telemedicine or in-person appointment.
Do you accept insurance?
I have a variety of payment methods, from cash pay, treatment packages, and insurance billing. I am in-network with most major insurance companies in our area that cover acupuncture services. Please visit the pricing page under the “Services” tab to learn more. If you don’t see your insurance listed but are still interested in treatment, don’t hesitate to contact me!