Acupuncture FAQ

  • Acupuncture is done using hair-thin needles. They are inserted at a very superficial depth. Most people report feeling little pain as the needle is put into certain points. Some people say acupuncture makes them feel energized. Others say they feel relaxed.

  • Chinese Medicine is a complete system of healthcare has been practiced for 3,000-5,000 years. Western science is just beginning to theorize just how it “works.” Acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system. This releases chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These biochemical changes may stimulate the body's natural healing abilities. They may promote physical and emotional well-being.

    • Skip the coffee, hydrate, and eat some protein within 2 hours of your appointment. Both dehydration and low blood sugar can cause patients to feel light-headed during or after their treatment and may increase sensitivity to the needle sensation. Coffee interferes with the effectiveness of acupuncture for pain relief.

    • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Pants should be loose enough to be easily pulled above the knee. Feel free to bring a change of pants to the office if this is more convenient. We are happy to use sheets to drape you if you need to remove tight clothing when you arrive for your appointment.

    • Complete your new patient paperwork online! Within your appointment confirmation email there is a link that will take you to the online paperwork. If you have any questions, please email me.

    • Ideally, do not brush your tongue or eat colored candy/foods that stain (e.g. beets) prior to your appointment, but don’t worry if you forget.

    • Please come prepared to pay for your treatment with cash, check, or card.

  • I recommend a minimum of 5 sessions. While some acute problems may resolve more quickly, this is the minimum number of sessions needed to create some momentum and “kick-start” your healing process.

    Chronic conditions/pain that has been ongoing for many months/years may require more time. You should expect to see improvement within 4-8 sessions. For stubborn problems, you may see improvement in secondary symptoms or areas of your life first –like sleep and energy level –before your main area of concern improves. Commitment, patience, and a desire to be involved in your healing process are crucial for success.

    When chronic conditions have persisted for many years, the healing process is a bit like peeling an onion. Symptoms will resolve one layer at a time as your body starts to heal. Our bodies are not designed to heal selectively, so typically when one disease begins to subside, other seemingly unrelated symptoms resolve as well. This is one reason acupuncture patients are so loyal to the medicine: you come in for back pain, but as your back pain subsides you find your dry itchy eyes have also improved!

  • Yes! Acupuncture is a great treatment option for many pregnancy-related concerns such as nausea, low back pain, headaches, insomnia or mood swings. Licensed acupuncturists know which points to use throughout pregnancy to enhance your health and keep both mother and baby safe.