Frequently Asked Questions

Hypodermic Needle (top) & Acupuncture Needle (bottom)

Is acupuncture painful?

4 Acu needles inside a hypodermic needle

  • Acupuncture should not be painful or a traumatic experience.  The needles are sterile, single-use, disposable and thin. Most patients feel a slight prick as the needle is inserted followed by temporary dull achy, tingling, or propagating sensations for a few seconds.  Once the needle is inserted and manipulated for a few seconds there is no discomfort unless that part of the body is voluntarily moved by the patient.  Patients commonly feel a sense of deep relaxation and frequently fall asleep.
  • Different people have varying levels of sensorial thresholds but overall most patients describe needling as a pleasant and relaxing experience.  There are also different styles and techniques of needling that can be utilized based on patient's sensitivity to minimize discomfort.  Plus there are other non-needling ways to treat imbalances in the body for patients with severe hypersensitivity to needles.

How long will an appointment last?

  • That largely depends on the services that you would like to receive.  All of the services are not provided on the same day and generally an appointment will last about an hour.

  • Acupuncture treatments generally take between 45 to 90 minutes depending on the style of treatment and other therapies utilized like tui na massage, gua sha, cupping, or moxa.

  • Herbal consults take about 30 minutes or they can be combined with acupuncture treatments.

  • Clinical pharmacy services can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes or longer depending on the situation.  One of the benefits of receiving clinical pharmacy services through us is that you will not feel rushed and we take the time necessary to help you including communicating with your physicians and pharmacy where you pick up your prescription medications to resolve any medication related issues.

  • Therapeutic exercises like Tai Chi, Chi Gong, and Kung Fu are taught in 60 to 90 minute-sessions on weekly basis.

What to wear and how to prepare for acupuncture treatments?

  • Wear or bring loose fitted comfortable clothing.  Commonly used acupuncture points are on the limbs and can be easily accessed during treatment while fully dressed.  Tui Na massage is performed over the clothes.  We also provide gowns and use drapes to ensure comfort and privacy.
  • We recommend eating prior to acupuncture treatments to avoid feeling lightheaded and fatigued.  Acupuncture treatment will need to be postponed if you are famished or intoxicated.

Is insurance accepted?

  • We do accept insurance for acupuncture and medication therapy management services as an out-of-network provider.  Please provide your insurance information when scheduling an appointment so we can verify coverage for you.
  • Medication therapy management services are covered under Medicare for certain patients.