Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does acupuncture hurt?
The sensations that patients experience during acupuncture range from nothing at all to a brief ache or heaviness in the area being needled. Some points are more sensitive than others. By and large patients describe the sensations as fleeting and the treatment experience as deeply relaxing.

Why would I see an acupuncturist?
Many patients begin acupuncture treatment to find relief from a wide range of physical conditions. Many who are not experiencing ailments also seek treatment to maximize their wellness and maintain balance. The greatest reason to begin acupuncture treatment is to cultivate vitality and radiant health and to stimulate the tremendous healing power of the body, mind and spirit.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
A growing number of insurance companies will reimburse for acupuncture treatments. Consult your insurer for the terms of coverage on your policy.

Are the needles safe?
Yes. Sterile disposable needles are used. They are used once and then disposed of immediately.

Are there different styles of acupuncture?
There are many styles of acupuncture. The primary distinction exists within the diagnostic process and the corresponding treatment planning process. To learn more about the distinction between various forms of acupuncture, please feel free to contact me.

Do I have to be ill to benefit from acupuncture?
Absolutely not. Many patients come for regular treatments to achieve increased effectiveness and enjoyment in life. Acupuncture can also be a powerful preventative measure to keep patients healthy throughout the year.

How frequently do I need to come to benefit from treatment?
The frequency of treatments varies with each individual. Please feel free to call me to discuss your concern and a possible plan of treatment.

I want to come for treatment, what do I do next?
Contact me at the telephone number displayed on the top of my website. We will discuss your concerns and schedule an initial visit. During your first visit we will explore a treatment schedule that will best meet your needs.

How do I get the most out of each treatment?
Avoid caffeine in coffee, tea, or sodas during the day of treatment. Avoid intense physical activity before or after your scheduled treatment.

How does acupuncture work?
This highly effective system of medical care is based on natural laws, which govern the movement of vital life giving energy, both in nature and in the body. This energy, called "chi", moves through the body in precise channels supporting functions of the body, mind and spirit. When the chi is moving disharmoniously, imbalance begins to surface in the form of specific symptoms. To address the underlying cause of a condition, these symptoms are viewed in relationship to the totality of a person. The gentle insertion of hair thin needles at specific points along the channels of chi energy, help restore harmony. In the presence of this subtle yet profound intervention, symptoms often resolve and patients frequently experience renewed vitality.