Frequently Asked Questions

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is based on the belief that Qi (chi) is an energy that circulates through the body, connecting vital organs and bodily functions. If this energy is blocked, problems within the body will occur. Through acupuncture, different points can be stimulated to restore the flow of Qi, harmonizing the body. From a Western medicine view, when a practitioner inserts thin, sterile needles into the body a signal is sent through the nervous system to the brain, where chemicals such as endorphins, norepinephrine, and enkephalin are released. Some of these chemicals are 10 to 200 times more potent than morphine and causes the body to have a parasympathetic response, also known as the 'rest and digest' state, resulting in a relaxed feeling and an overall decrease in inflammation.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are the size of a few human hairs and usually cause little to no pain. Sometimes you may feel a slight pinch on insertion, but often times, you won't feel anything at all. Once inserted, needles may be adjusted and when it reaches its intended depth, you're likely to feel a mild, dull ache or a slight tingling sensation, which is known as the 'de Qi' or the sensation of Qi. If you do not feel this sensation, that does not mean that the acupuncture is not working, but may just mean that you are not as sensitive to the feeling of Qi.

What can acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture can help with a wide array of conditions including, but not limited to:

Back Pain · Headaches · Depression · Anxiety · Insomnia · Excess Stress · Common Cold · IBS · PMS · Sports Injuries · Allergies · Crohn's · Fertility · Plantar Fasciitis· Smoking Cessation · Chemotherapy Side Effects · Skin Conditions · Wrinkles/Fine Lines · Neuropathy · Stroke Recovery · Fibromyalgia · Frozen Shoulder· Sciatica · Gastrointestinal Disorders · And many more!

Is there anything I need to bring or do prior to my first appointment?

We recommend that you have something to eat prior to your appointment such as a granola bar or a banana. We also recommend that you wear loose, comfortable clothing that allow for access to your arms and legs. We do provide gowns and sheets to cover you to your comfort level, if your clothes prevent your acupuncturist from treating specific areas.

We also ask that you complete your intake forms prior to arrival. However, if you are unable to do so, we ask that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your first appointment to allow for sufficient time to complete the necessary forms.

General Acupuncture Form Cosmetic Acupuncture Form

How is traditional Chinese medicine different from Western medicine?

In Western medicine, patients are viewed as a healthy individual with a particular problem. In theory, an unlimited number of people could have the same condition, and each would be perceived as belonging to the same large group, such as having the flu, migraines, or insomnia, and be treated in a similar fashion to others in their specific group.

In Chinese medicine, a practitioner uses the specific characteristics of the condition to make a diagnosis unique to the individual patient. For example, three different people may be diagnosed with having migraines, but all three may have a different diagnoses in Chinese medicine. Additionally, disease, from the Chinese medicine point of view, is an imbalance in the patient. Understanding the nature of the imbalance is the goal of the diagnosis, while restoring balance is the focus of treatment.

What forms of payments are accepted?

Credit/debit, check, and cash are all accepted forms of payment. You may also use Flexible spending or a Health Savings account.

Do you accept insurance?

At this time, we do not accept insurance nor deal with insurance companies directly. However, we can provide you with a superbill following your appointment with all of the necessary information for you to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.