Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an acupuncture visit take?

Your first treatment is approximately 1.5 hours and involves an initial consultation where a traditional Chinese and Japanese diagnosis and treatment is made specifically for you. After the consultation, we will begin your first treatment. Each follow-up visits normally runs for 1 hour and will consist of a much shorter intake and diagnosis period.

Do the Acupuncture needles hurt?

Most people are surprised and relieved to learn that acupuncture needles are very thin—unlike hypodermic needles which are thick and hollow. We can attain a high level of skill in gently placing these tiny needles and often the insertion is barely perceptible. The needles are usually inserted only several millimeters in depth—also very unlike hypodermic injections. As such, patients generally do not feel the painful piercing or pricking sensation typically associated with an injection, blood sample, or other medical needle procedure. We use only disposable needles.

How many treatments will I need, and how frequently?

The number and frequency of treatments will depend on your individual condition as well as your response to acupuncture. Usually, a series of treatments are needed; longer treatment plans are typically required for more severe or chronic conditions. Some patients respond after only one or two treatments, while it may take several weeks for others. Your provider will discuss an optimal treatment plan for you based on your individual case.

I'm doing other therapies right now. Is it still a good idea to come in?

Acupuncture, along with many other modalities work beautifully together. We suggest that you consult and tell us which therapies you are currently receiving so focus can be drawn to complimenting the work that you have already done with the other modality.

Do you accept health savings accounts (HSAs) or flex spending accounts (FSAs)?

Yes our office is compatible with all flex spending accounts. We can process your HFA/Flex debit card directly or provide you with the precise invoice needed for full reimbursement.

I feel a cold coming on should I still come in for my scheduled appointment?

There's a lot we can do to help you alleviate the symptoms of a cold and get over it as quickly as possible. Sometimes, though, the best thing is to stay home and rest, and reschedule your appointment for another day. Give us a call so we can help determine the best course in your case. Also, please tell us upon arrival if you or someone in your family currently has a cold or flu.

How do you use Traditional Chinese and Japanese Medicine to diagnose my health problem?

I will ask a variety of questions regarding your specific complaint and general health. I will use three main Traditional diagnostic methods including radial pulse reading, tongue and abdominal diagnosis to determine a treatment plan specific for you.

How should I prepare for my Acupuncture treatment?

Patients should eat before coming for an acupuncture treatment and should wear comfortable clothes. You should try to refrain from excessive exercise for at least two hours before and after treatment.

Am I a good candidate for acupuncture?

During the initial evaluation we will thoroughly assess your condition, health history as well as your personal goals to determine if acupuncture will assist you with your ailment. We assess each patient individually to create a treatment plan which is unique and beneficial to you specifically. And we will make referrals when appropriate.

I'm very busy, can you work with me?

Like most of our patients–you are probably very busy with work and life. Please let us know if you need to leave by a specific time; and we will accommodate your schedule to allow you to create a balance of mindfulness with your moving schedule. We prefer 1 hour, but we can get a lot done in half an hour if need be.

What is your cancellation policy?

We offer individualized care and have a limited number of appointment times available. We ask for 24 hours' notice to avoid cancellation charges.

Will I need to keep coming once the condition has improved?

It depends on the condition, the individual, and what is defined by improvement. Typically the more complex and the longer a person has had a condition the more important it is to follow up after relief has been achieved. Please talk to your provider about the specific expectations of your treatment plan. Remember, Chinese and Japanese Acupuncture are preventative medicine. So once you feel well it is your choice to continue to stay that way.